Transthoracic electrical bioimpedance: a means of filling the void?

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the published evidence regarding the use of transthoracic electric bioimpedance (TEB) for the non-invasive monitoring of cardiac output in the ED.

Method: Databases of the medical literature, relevant textbooks and the Internet were searched for articles regarding TEB. Criteria for inclusion were drawn up prior to examination of the articles and included adherence to guidelines for comparing methods of clinical measurement.

Results: Results are discussed under the following headings: technological capability, diagnostic accuracy, limitations, range of possible uses, therapeutic impact, impact on health care providers, patient outcome and future directions.

Conclusion: TEB is a technique for the non-invasive monitoring of cardiac output whose ease of use, continuous data acquisition and versatility suggest it may have a role to play in the care of patients in our EDs.