This handbook is a manual intended for residents at any stage of their experience, including cardiothoracic fellowship. It is meant as a guideline to understand the pathophysiologic rationale of action in the operating room and intensive care unit. Emphasis is placed on physiology, anatomy, pathology, medical management, and surgical technique.

Fritz Baumgartner, Clinical Assitant Professor of Surgery, UCLA School of Medicine, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Vascular Surgery Associates, Long Beach, California.