Advancing electroencephalography education in anesthesiology.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Electroencephalography (EEG) monitoring is a powerful tool for optimizing anesthesia depth and improving perioperative neurocognitive outcomes. Despite its potential, EEG adoption remains limited in anesthesiology due to training gaps, perceived complexity, and reliance on processed EEG indices. This review examines current educational strategies and highlights the need for structured EEG education in anesthesia training.

Recent findings: Emerging educational methodologies include short, focused teaching sessions, electronic learning modules, simulation-based practice, real-time clinical application with feedback, and self-directed study resources. Deliberate practice, spaced repetition, and competency-based progression have shown significant promise in improving EEG interpretation skills among anesthesiologists. Research remains sparse, but existing evidence indicates that even brief, structured interventions can meaningfully enhance clinical proficiency.

Summary: Structured, accessible EEG training programs are critical to demystifying EEG interpretation and integrating its use into standard anesthetic practice. Embedding EEG education into residency curricula by relying on modern educational techniques and promoting faculty development will be essential to ensure anesthesiologists are equipped to use EEG monitoring effectively, ultimately improving patient outcomes.