If a tree falls in the forest, is there an echo? Lessons learnt from the STS database analysis

The use of perioperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is vital to the care of the cardiac surgical patient. However, there exists a substantial amount of heterogeneity in the conduct of it, and importantly, in the reporting thereof. The lack of uniformity in that it generates in patient care is clearly undesirable, and it needs to change. The importance of continuous self-examination and efforts to improve past performance cannot be overstated in an environment where reimbursement is closely linked to performance and outcome1.
Source: Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia - Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Tags: Editorial Source Type: research