Transthoracic echocardiography for perioperative haemodynamic monitoring

Transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) is valuable for perioperative monit oring in patients at risk from haemodynamic disturbance. However, its use i s not practicable in patients undergoing surgical procedures under regional anaesthesia. We describe two cases showing that transthoracic echocardiogr aphy (TTE) has the same advantages as TOE and thus may be valuable for moni toring awake patients. TTE should be considered when extended perioperative haemodynamic monitoring is needed but TOE is not possible.