[Simulation in anesthesia].

Abstract

Simulation in anesthesia is reviewed. Its aim includes education/training, analysis of phenomena, explanation or interpretation of phenomena and instrument checks. It deals with pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of inhalational and intravenous agents, respiration and circulation, action and behavior of anesthesiologists and income analysis. Simulations are accomplished mainly by using computers, yet few use physical models or a physical model combined with computers. For writing this review, CD-ROM's of Medline data were used. Problems in searching literatures through this route are discussed. Finally, the problem of the distribution of softwares is also discussed.