Importance Of Thoracic Surgery
Thoracic surgery focuses on the chest organs, including the heart, lungs, esophagus, and trachea. Technological advances have increased the safety and availability of these complex surgical procedures. Lung cancer surgeries, heart transplants, and anti-reflux surgeries save and improve lives around the world.
Thoracic surgeons who are often grouped with cardiac, or heart, specialists for thoracic surgery operate on the heart, lungs, esophagus, and major blood vessels inside the chest, as well as the bony structures and tissues that form and support the chest cavity.
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Thoracic surgeons specialize in dealing with diseases or injuries to the structures inside your chest, including your:
- Heart
- Pericardium (the membrane around the heart)
- Coronary arteries, valves, and myocardium
- Trachea (windpipe)
- Esophagus (the tube leading to the stomach)
- Lungs
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, killing one person every 36 seconds. Experts estimate that someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds. Lung cancer is the third most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death for men and women. These numbers highlight the importance of cardiac care and thoracic surgery.
Thoracic surgeons oversee all aspects of related operations, managing treatment plans before, during, and after the procedure. They often build strong relationships with patients and their families, especially in emergency situations like heart attacks.