Thoracic Anatomy: Pt. 1

This issue is the first of two devoted to a highly detailed presentation of anatomy for the thoracic surgeon. Supported and even encouraged by new technologies, thoracic surgeons now perform 40 per cent to 60 per cent of what were traditionally open procedures using minimally invasive techniques. Even those operations that are still being performed using open techniques employ the smallest possible incisions, limiting visualization to only the most relevant anatomic structures. These factors limit the ability of the trainee and young thoracic surgeon to learn the detailed anatomy of what are often complex structures. In this issue, we focus on the anatomy of the chest wall, airways, and lungs and the second part will focus on pleura, mediastinum, esophagus and diaphragm. These two issues of "Thoracic Surgical Clinics" are produced in full color with completely original illustrations in order to provide the most accurate, detailed, and clinically useful information possible.
We believe this will be useful to practicing thoracic surgeons who are developing new procedures, to surgeons who are doing procedures that they might not perform frequently, and to surgical trainees who need a sound grasp of anatomy prior to entering the operating theater.