Anesthesia in the cardiac catheterization lab.

Because of the increasing need for anesthesia in the CCL, anesthesiologists are often involved in diagnostic and interventional procedures in this setting. Safe delivery of anesthesia requires adequate preparation and familiarity with the procedure and its surroundings. Radiation safety is of paramount importance for the patient and the practitioner, and ready access to the services of anesthesia support personnel, the pharmacy, and the stat laboratory is a key factor for success. In the CCL, and the traditional operating room environment, anesthesiologists shall continue to advance and improve patient care while reducing morbidity and mortality.