“Key Questions in Thoracic Surgery” systematically covers all the main topics involved in the current practice of a thoracic surgeon. It incorporates current guidelines for practice (such as from the American College of Chest Physicians, British Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society) and up-to-date information based on current literature. Each chapter is structured to include etiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, indications for surgery, peri-operative management, surgical options and postoperative care. Possible complications are discussed and the results of current practice presented.
Importantly, there is a section on basic sciences related to the practising thoracic surgeon and a further section on thoracic investigations with many images illustrating the variety of pathologies. Each chapter also contains important references for further reading and greater depth of knowledge. The data and body of knowledge presented in this book is strictly evidence-based and is relevant to all thoracic surgical trainees, at any stage of their training programme.
It provides residents, fellows and specialist registrars the necessary information to carry out their daily duties. Respiratory physicians and thoracic intensive care unit specialists will also find the book useful in terms of the indications and surgical management of these patients, as they are integral to the thoracic surgical process. Another important group is the nursing staff, physiotherapists and other professions allied to medicine working with patients with adult thoracic disease either pre-operatively or postoperatively, as it helps to give a detailed understanding of the principles surrounding thoracic surgical disease.
Most importantly, the book is ideal as a revision aid for residents/registrars undertaking their Cardiothoracic Surgery Board examinations around the world. Although these examinations vary in format in different countries, this book is applicable to all cardiothoracic surgical trainees. Its concise, yet complete coverage of the important topics, make it the ideal guide to answer the key questions in thoracic surgery that are asked within the confines of an examination.
