#Types of cardiothoracic surgery manual#

Despite being one of the most challenging fields of surgery, cardiothoracic surgeons find their job incredibly rewarding since they often see immediate and life-changing results of their work (1).Ĭardiothoracic surgery is a relatively new and rapidly evolving specialty. Teamwork and leadership ability are crucial to effectively manage and lead your team. Cardiothoracic surgery is very fast-paced and you should have the capacity to continuously monitor developing situations and anticipate issues. You will also need to demonstrate physical stamina and emotional resilience to cope with the demands of surgery, as well as the ability to remain calm and level-headed in stressful situations.

#Types of cardiothoracic surgery manual#

In addition to a high degree of manual dexterity and excellent visuo-spatial awareness, a high aptitude for problem-solving and the ability to think and plan in three dimensions are vital. Consultants lead and manage their own team (1).Īpart from the necessary skills employed by all doctors, aspiring cardiothoracic surgeons should exhibit certain qualities and traits. They work within a close-knit multidisciplinary team, both within the operating theatre (eg anaesthetists, theatre nurses, other surgeons, clinical perfusion scientists) and outside (eg cardiologists, respiratory physicians, oncologists, intensivists, physiotherapists, administrative staff). This involves attending outpatient clinics and ward rounds. Their responsibilities also include a mix of medical and imaging work, ie diagnosing, managing, and treating numerous diseases affecting the organs of the chest. Keyhole thoracic surgery (video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery)Īlthough cardiothoracic surgery work is relatively safe, complications do occur, such as bleeding, infections, stroke, and death consequently, monitoring patients in intensive care units is an integral part of cardiothoracic surgery. Surgery for lung cancer, tumours, and cysts

They may focus on a particular area of the chest, ie cardiac surgery, thoracic surgery, or congenital cardiac surgery, which is concerned with babies and children born with heart diseases and defects (1).Ī wide variety of surgery is carried out by cardiothoracic surgeons, including (1):

A cardiothoracic surgeon is a doctor who performs surgery on the heart, lungs, and other thoracic structures.