Illustrated with approximately 100 anatomical drawings, this work provides the information physicians need to make referral decisions and explain to their patients what surgery entails. In addition, the chapters on patient assessment and post-operative care, based on the author"s experience of patients" needs and concerns, give expert advice on the practice issues of preparation for surgery and post-operative care and rehabilitation. Chapters include: pre-operative assessment; techniques; surgery for coronary artery disease; complications of ischaemic heart disease; valvular heart disease; heart and lung failure; emergencies; congenital heart disease; patient management in the early and long term postoperative stages.