Anesthetic considerations for special thoracic procedures

Abstract

Significant advances have been achieved in surgical and anesthetic techniques for the treatment of patients presenting with a variety of complex intrathoracic lesions. Despite the technologic advances, these patients continue to pose a challenge for anesthesiologists to provide safe and effective clinical care. A thorough understanding of the patient's underlying pathology inclusive of a detailed preoperative evaluation and effective communication between the surgical and anesthesia teams would help to ensure a favorable outcome.