Intelligent control and anesthesiology: enhancing physician decision making

The advantages of using an intelligent controller to enhance physician decision-making within an operating theatre environment is investigated. In particular, ways in which incorporating an intelligent controller as an integral part of an anesthesiologist/patient loop are considered. The intelligent controller can provide a physician with information derived by fusing data gathered by independent operating room monitors, information that is not currently available or readily derivable and which might offer additional particulars useful in diagnosis and treatment. The intelligent controller is also viewed as potentially providing control of operating room effecters via merged data, thereby helping to reduce potential task and information overload.