Future research and directions in out of operating room anesthesia

The traditional surgeries are declining and with that the role of surgeons. The last decade has seen an unprecedented growth of "procedures" that are threatening to replace many conventional surgeries. More importantly, these procedures have moved to places away from the safe operating rooms. As a result, the role of traditional anesthesiologists will wane and anesthesia providers will be required to learn new skills to face the new challenges. This chapter has examined some of the risks associated with providing deep sedation and anesthesia in out of operating room locations. Airway related adverse events dominate along with fluctuating anesthesia needs. Every location poses unique challenges and no single anesthesia provider will be able to master all the skills necessary. Research and publications are lacking in this area. It is hoped that mainstream anesthesia journals will recognize this area of anesthesia and give its due importance.