The future of anesthesiology is perioperative medicine.

摘要: Anesthesiology is perioperative medicine. To some anesthesiologists, this statement gospel and that simple phrase exactly describes the real practice of anesthesiology current activities anesthesiologists. others, unrealistic, unattainable, or an unnecessary extension specialty; for them, should remain a medical specialty largely confined to intraoperative care. What perspective on provides best prospects robust, enduring specialty? (i.e., medicine) has evolved from based procedures (e.g., intubation, epidural catheter placement) one with firm scientific basis in which research leading improvements practice. Perioperative medicine relates encompasses all aspects care rendered patients continuum decision operate when patient discharged hospital after surgery (and perhaps beyond). at crossroads: it can oriented around care, could expand boundaries its clinical what claims as intellectual domain. This article addresses how reached crossroad, discusses new paradigm medicine, speculates future. The hypothesizes although not without difficulties own, offers chances survive prosper. A broad view anesthesiology, encompassing strengthened by production information relevant cognizant realities health economics, strong healthy attractive trainees provide practitioners long-term satisfying careers. While considers options ponders whether right path take, third option may emerge. Reinventing yield greater than practiced currently but ambitious change commit totality Debate thoughtful consideration future probably will cause changes meaning