Difficult Decisions in Thoracic Surgery

Difficult Decisions in Thoracic Surgery: An Evidence-Based Approach describes the recommended ideal approach, rather than customary care, in selected clinical situations. Brief chapters are devoted to a specific question or decision in general thoracic surgery that is difficult or controversial. Although some of the content may be available in major thoracic texts, rarely are such questions posed specifically and analyzed according to the level of supporting evidence available. The chapters contain both evidence-based recommendations and descriptions of surgeons’ personal practices based on their experience and the published literature.

Chapters are organized around clearly identified recommendations, making possible the identification of useful material at a glance. Over 50 different topics are presented, including a review of available evidence and a general discussion of recommended practice.

This book is a valuable reference source for practicing surgeons, surgeons in training, and educators.

Mark K. Ferguson, MD is Professor of Surgery at University of Chicago Medical Center. He specializes in the surgical management of diseases of the lungs and esophagus. He is experienced in all techniques of lung and esophageal resection and is skilled in surgical methods to relieve airway obstruction and malignant pleural effusions. He has served on the boards and committees of numerous national societies and institutions including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Institutes of Health. Dr. Ferguson is the author of more than 75 chapters in medical textbooks. He has edited or written books on esophageal reconstructive surgery, failed anti-reflux therapy, and decision-making in thoracic surgery. He recently authored an atlas of general thoracic surgery. Dr. Ferguson has also written more than 175 papers in medical journals, and serves as an editor or associate editor for three cardiothoracic surgery journals. His research interests include risk analysis and long-term outcomes after lung resection and esophageal resection.