Q. As a practicing Obstetric Anesthesiologist, why did you decide to try Accuro for epidurals and spinals?
A: I first became aware of Accuro about four years ago. Practicing anesthesiology in a community-hospital setting for 25 years, I was always interested in how emerging technology might enhance my approach. With ultrasound guidance the standard for many anesthesia-related procedures, including central venous access and peripheral nerve block placement, Accuro appeared to be an obvious tool for neuraxial analgesia and anesthesia. I followed early studies involving conventional ultrasound for spinal and epidural placement and understood a steep learning curve, including a large population to practice on, was necessary to become proficient; it’s not an ideal set of circumstances, especially for a practitioner in a small community hospital. With Accuro, I observed a thoughtfully conceived, small device that—with its automated software—gave me additional information for expeditious, efficient first-pass success. It has been my experience that the Accuro device has filled this void, especially when time is of the essence.
Q: Do you feel Accuro replaces your existing skillset?
A: Absolutely not. Accuro enhances my ability and provides me important data prior to inserting the needle.
Q: How does Accuro help you with challenging patient anatomy?
A: In obstetric anesthesiology, one of the most common examples of challenging anatomy is obesity. It is not uncommon to have patients with BMIs in the 50-60% range. Merely finding the midline and ascertaining the length of needle necessary has, historically, involved trial and error with multiple attempts. In my experience with over 400 patients, these concerns are quickly satisfied once Accuro is placed on the back.
Q: Why have you chosen to become a “Clinical Champion” for Accuro?
A: As anesthesiologists, we are always looking for ways to improve our practice and become more efficient. Speaking with colleagues, I was surprised that most of them had no knowledge of Accuro or an interest in taking a closer look. I was delighted to discover that, in my practice, Accuro truly did deliver the benefits for which it was designed. In my opinion, Accuro can make a difference in a patient’s experience and quality of care; that is what I want to communicate as a Clinical Champion.
BRIAN LAUNIUS, MD
Dr. Brian Launius, MD, is an Anesthesiology Specialist in Cottonwood, AZ, and has over 31 years of experience in the medical field. He was a guest speaker for the Irish Society of Regional Anaesthesia webinar in 2021.