Anaesthesia for cardiothoracic transplantation and ventricular assist devices

This article provides a brief overview of the preparation, process and complications of anaesthesia for heart and lung transplantation. Sections are included on pre-assesment, preparation, induction, maintenance and emergence following thoracic organ transplantation. The anaesthetic management of the expanding field of ventricular assist devices (VADs) including the role of transosoephageal ultrasound is also discussed.