RT Book, Section A1 Jaklitsch, Michael T. A2 Sugarbaker, David J. A2 Bueno, Raphael A2 Colson, Yolonda L. A2 Jaklitsch, Michael T. A2 Krasna, Mark J. A2 Mentzer, Steven J. A2 Williams, Marcia A2 Adams, Ann SR Print(0) ID 1105837664 T1 Thoracic Incisions T2 Adult Chest Surgery, 2e YR 2015 FD 2015 PB McGraw-Hill Education PP New York, NY SN 978-0-07-178189-3 LK accesssurgery.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1105837664 RD 2024/04/25 AB A surgical incision opens an aperture into the thorax to permit the work of the planned operation to proceed. If placed correctly, the operation proceeds with unimpeded visualization of the important anatomy. If placed incorrectly, it can lead to frustrating delays and difficulty in the operation. Dr. Robert E. Gross' admonition, “If an operation is difficult, you are not doing it properly,” applies directly to the incision used.* This chapter is designed for both the novice and those who have already gained some experience with thoracic incisions. The artwork is designed to explain important relationships for the inexperienced. We also have provided subtle pearls that will rekindle an appreciation of different incisions for the more experienced. More important, we have tried to explain the logic behind the incisions.