An Essay on 35 Years of the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists

This is a historical account of the accomplishments of the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists from its founding in 1989 to the present. It is written on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the founding of this organization. The society accomplishments include providing a means to educate anesthesiologists and others about the perioperative care of patients undergoing cardiac, thoracic, and vascular surgery. The society has led accreditation of transesophageal echocardiography and education in cardiothoracic anesthesia. The society publishes a section within Anesthesia & Analgesia and supports investigation by providing a forum for the discussion of research and funding peer-reviewed projects. The first 35 years of the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists has been remarkable in all that has been accomplished.