Oesophageal Doppler monitoring

Abstract

Maintaining optimal fluid balance intraoperatviely is essential in ensuring optimal cardiac output and tissue perfusion. Hypovolaemia and fluid overload are known to exacerbate postoperative complications. Haemodynamic monitoring enables goal-directed fluid replacement, to minimize the risk of inadequate or excessive fluid administration. The oesophageal Doppler monitor (ODM) is a minimally invasive device, that can be used to assess the cardiac output of a patient and guide appropriate administration of fluid and drugs. This article focusses on the use of the oesophageal Doppler monitor, the physics and physiology that underpin how it works, it's application in clinical practice, and it's limitations. © 2011 Rila Publications Ltd.