Thoracic surgeons provide the operative, perioperative and critical care of patients with acquired and congenital pathologic conditions within the chest. They surgically repair heart lesions and congenital and acquired conditions of the heart, including the pericardium, coronary arteries, valves and myocardium. Thoracic surgery also focuses on pathologic conditions of the lung, esophagus and chest wall, abnormalities of the great vessels, tumors of the mediastinum and diseases of the diaphragm and pericardium. Management of the airway and injuries of the chest are within the scope of the specialty.1
The thoracic surgeons at Newton Medical Center have the knowledge, experience and technical skills to accurately diagnose, safely operate upon and effectively manage patients with thoracic diseases of the chest. They have substantial knowledge of cardiorespiratory physiology and oncology, as well as capability in the use of heart assist devices, management of abnormal heart rhythms and drainage of the chest cavity, respiratory support systems, endoscopy and invasive and noninvasive diagnostic techniques.
1. American Board of Medical Specialties. 2011-07-28. URL: http://www.abms.org/who_we_help/consumers/about_physician_specialties/thoracic.aspx. Accessed: 2011-07-28.