Ideaflow and Ambidexterity in Anesthesiology-Quality and Safety in an Era of Disruptive Innovation.

The concept of ambidexterity as a strategic advantage has been discussed extensively in the business literature. While the specialty of anesthesiology has mastered exploitative/variance-reducing tactics as well as any specialty in health care, a new perspective of exploratory/variance-increasing strategies will be necessary to remain relevant in the perioperative space. We offer a framework of "idea flow" as a means for anesthesiology groups and departments to balance ongoing clinical mastery with innovative exploration.