8 Cardiothoracic Surgery Books That Define the Field

Recommended by David P Taggart, Clauden Louis MD MS, and other experts for mastering Cardiothoracic Surgery practice

Updated on June 25, 2025
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What if the books you choose could accelerate your mastery of cardiothoracic surgery and sharpen your clinical judgment? Cardiothoracic surgery remains one of the most demanding surgical fields, requiring precision, deep knowledge, and a steady hand. As surgical techniques evolve and patient needs grow more complex, having the right resources is critical to your development.

David P Taggart, renowned Professor of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Oxford, whose extensive research on coronary artery bypass grafting has influenced modern practice, offers unparalleled insight through his work. Alongside thought leaders like Clauden Louis MD MS, their recommendations illuminate the path toward clinical excellence.

While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks and detailed protocols, you might also consider creating a personalized Cardiothoracic Surgery book that builds on these insights, tailored to your background, skill level, and specific areas of interest. This approach helps bridge the gap between broad expertise and your unique professional needs.

Best for advanced coronary bypass techniques
David P Taggart, Professor of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Oxford, brings unmatched expertise to this textbook, drawing on over 300 peer-reviewed papers and decades of clinical practice. His leadership as Past President of the Society of Cardiothoracic Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland underscores his authority in the field. This work reflects his dedication to advancing coronary artery bypass grafting, making it an invaluable resource for surgeons seeking detailed, evidence-based guidance.
State of the Art Surgical Coronary Revascularization book cover

by David P Taggart, John D Puskas··You?

2021·520 pages·Surgery, Cardiology, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Coronary Revascularization, CABG Techniques

Drawing from decades of experience and a vast network of experts, this book compiles comprehensive insights into surgical coronary revascularization. It delves deep into the pathophysiology, surgical techniques, and perioperative management of coronary artery disease, including on- and off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting. You’ll find detailed guidance on conduit selection and optimizing patient outcomes, supported by evidence-based practices and contributions from over 100 global leaders. This volume suits cardiac surgeons and healthcare professionals aiming to refine their surgical approach and understand nuanced clinical scenarios surrounding ischemic heart disease.

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Best for clinical decision frameworks
BookAuthority, a respected publication known for highlighting top medical literature, endorses this work as "One of the best new Cardiothoracic Surgery books." Their expertise in curating essential medical resources makes their recommendation especially meaningful for those invested in cardiothoracic surgery education. This endorsement reflects the book’s value in providing clear, structured decision algorithms that support surgeons navigating complex clinical scenarios.

Recommended by BookAuthority

One of the best new Cardiothoracic Surgery books

TSRA Decision Algorithms in Cardiothoracic Surgery book cover

by Clauden Louis MD MS, Panos Vardas MD, Peter Chen MD, Jennifer Dixon MD, Parth B. Amin MD··You?

2019·203 pages·Cardiothoracic Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Medical Procedure, Surgery, Clinical Decision Making

What started as a commitment from cardiothoracic surgery residents and faculty to improve clinical decision-making became this detailed compendium. Clauden Louis MD MS and colleagues have crafted a 100-chapter resource centered on decision algorithms that guide you through complex cardiothoracic pathologies, from coronary disease to congenital heart defects. You’ll find structured approaches to adult cardiac, thoracic, and congenital cases, with practical frameworks for situations like cardiopulmonary bypass troubleshooting or lung cancer staging. This book suits residents and practicing surgeons seeking a concise yet thorough reference on making informed clinical choices within cardiothoracic surgery.

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Best for tailored mastery plans
This AI-created book on cardiothoracic surgery is tailored to your specific background, skill level, and goals. You share which areas you want to focus on, and the book is created to cover exactly those essentials you need. This personalized approach helps you navigate the complexity of cardiothoracic surgery efficiently by concentrating on what matters most to your learning journey.
2025·50-300 pages·Cardiothoracic Surgery, Surgical Techniques, Patient Management, Perioperative Care, Coronary Revascularization

This personalized book explores the essential knowledge and skills in cardiothoracic surgery, tailored specifically to your background and goals. It covers core surgical techniques, patient management, and perioperative care with a focus on your interests and current expertise. By synthesizing a wide range of expert knowledge into a format matched to your specific learning needs, it reveals critical concepts and nuanced procedures that shape successful outcomes in this demanding specialty. With its tailored approach, this guide navigates the complexities of cardiothoracic surgery through personalized pathways, helping you deepen understanding and build mastery efficiently. It examines topics from coronary revascularization to anesthesia considerations, all aligned with the precise areas you want to develop.

Tailored Guide
Surgical Mastery
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for perioperative management guidance
Robert M. Bojar, MD, Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Saint Vincent Hospital, brings decades of surgical expertise to this manual. His practical approach reflects extensive experience in managing adult cardiac surgery patients, making this a valuable resource for those involved in perioperative care. Bojar’s clarity and focus on the latest protocols help clinicians confidently navigate complex surgical cases.
2021·944 pages·Cardiothoracic Surgery, Surgery, Perioperative Care, Cardiac Diseases, ICU Management

The methods Robert M. Bojar developed while leading cardiac surgery at Saint Vincent Hospital inform this detailed manual, which meticulously covers perioperative care from preoperative assessment through postoperative management. You’ll find clear explanations of cardiac surgical diseases, operative procedures, and the latest techniques like TAVR and Mitraclip, all organized in an accessible outline format that supports quick referencing during clinical practice. This book serves as a practical guide for surgeons, cardiologists, and critical care teams, offering extensive chapters on organ system management in the ICU and postoperative complications. If you’re involved in adult cardiac surgery care, this manual provides a solid foundation without unnecessary complexity.

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Best for cardiothoracic anesthesia specialists
Glenn P. Gravlee MD is a renowned expert in anesthesiology, particularly cardiothoracic anesthesia. His extensive experience and clear, practical teaching style make this book a standout resource for those navigating the complexities of cardiac anesthesia. Gravlee’s contributions bridge the gap between detailed medical science and clinical application, offering readers a reliable, accessible guide that evolves with the field through new content on ECMO and robotic surgical techniques.
2018·848 pages·Cardiothoracic Surgery, Anesthesia, Anaesthetics, Pharmacology, Cardiac Physiology

The methods Glenn P. Gravlee MD developed while deeply engaged in cardiothoracic anesthesia shape this book into a focused resource that balances detailed physiology and pharmacology with practical clinical application. You’ll find clear explanations of patient preparation, anesthetic management tailored to specific cardiac disorders, and post-procedural care, all presented in an outline format that makes complex information digestible. New chapters on ECMO support and robotic surgical techniques reflect the evolving landscape of cardiothoracic surgery, while clinical videos and concise chapter pearls add depth without overwhelming. This book suits anesthesiology fellows, residents, and practicing anesthesiologists seeking a dependable guide through the nuances of cardiac anesthesia.

Doody's Core Title 2022
Doody's Core Title 2023
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Best for practical resident training
Justin Watson MD is a renowned expert in cardiothoracic surgery, contributing significantly to education and surgical practice. His dedication to training surgical residents led to the creation of this book, which distills peer-reviewed clinical scenarios into a resource tailored for those advancing through cardiothoracic surgery training. The book reflects his commitment to bridging practical knowledge with evolving clinical evidence, making it a valuable companion for residents developing their surgical judgment.
TSRA Clinical Scenarios in Cardiothoracic Surgery: 2nd Edition book cover

by Justin Watson MD, Clauden Louis MD MS··You?

2020·548 pages·Cardiothoracic Surgery, Surgical Technique, Clinical Acumen, Case Scenarios, Decision Making

After extensive collaboration among cardiothoracic surgery residents and faculty, Justin Watson MD and Clauden Louis MD MS developed this updated edition to meet evolving clinical demands. You dive into 91 chapters covering real-world clinical scenarios across congenital, thoracic, and adult cardiac surgery, focusing on dynamic decision-making and surgical technique refinement. The book’s case-based approach cultivates your practical knowledge and clinical judgment, especially valuable during residency and early career stages. For instance, it expands on congenital cardiothoracic surgery with new chapters, helping you anticipate complex cases with evidence-based insights. This resource suits trainees aiming to sharpen situational awareness rather than seasoned surgeons seeking advanced theoretical discourse.

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Best for rapid skill improvement
This AI-created book on cardiothoracic surgical proficiency is tailored to your current experience and specific goals. By sharing your background and areas of interest, you receive a focused resource that helps you navigate the complexities of surgical techniques and patient care. Personalizing the content ensures that you spend your time mastering what matters most to your practice and growth in this demanding field.
2025·50-300 pages·Cardiothoracic Surgery, Surgical Techniques, Operative Skills, Perioperative Care, Clinical Decision Making

This tailored book explores the step-by-step actions necessary to accelerate proficiency in cardiothoracic surgery. It focuses on your specific interests and skill level, delivering a personalized learning journey that breaks down complex surgical techniques into manageable, targeted lessons. By addressing your unique goals, the book reveals practical approaches to mastering operative skills, perioperative care, and clinical decision-making in cardiothoracic contexts. Tailored to match your background, it synthesizes advanced surgical knowledge into an accessible format, helping you build confidence and competence efficiently. Whether refining an existing foundation or advancing to new challenges, this book offers a customized roadmap for rapid skill improvement.

Tailored Guide
Surgical Skill Pathways
3,000+ Custom Books Made
Best for comprehensive surgical reference
Dr. Frank Sellke brings unparalleled expertise as the Karl Karlson & Gloria Karlson Professor and Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Brown University, with a distinguished career spanning Harvard Medical School and over 585 published papers. His leadership in cardiovascular surgery and recognition by the American Heart Association underscore the authoritative nature of this book. This two-volume set reflects his commitment to advancing surgical education and practice, making it an invaluable resource for anyone deeply involved in cardiothoracic surgery.
Sabiston and Spencer Surgery of the Chest: 2-Volume Set book cover

by Frank W. Sellke MD, Pedro J. del Nido MD, Scott J. Swanson MD··You?

2015·2496 pages·Cardiothoracic Surgery, Medical Procedure, Surgery, Cardiac Surgery, Pediatric Cardiac

Drawing from decades of leadership in cardiothoracic surgery, Dr. Frank W. Sellke and his co-authors deliver an exhaustive exploration of thoracic and cardiac surgical techniques. This two-volume set breaks down complex procedures across adult cardiac, pediatric cardiac, and thoracic surgery into concise chapters, making it easier to locate critical information swiftly. You’ll find detailed coverage of both traditional open surgeries and minimally invasive methods, complemented by 21 procedural videos that enhance skill mastery. Particularly noteworthy are chapters on cutting-edge topics like endovascular stenting and neurodevelopmental outcomes, positioning this work as a vital reference for surgeons, residents, and medical students seeking depth and precision.

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Best for exam preparation and review
Damien J. LaPar is a prominent figure in the field of cardiothoracic surgery, serving as an editor for the TSRA Review. His expertise is complemented by contributions from other leading editors, including Carlos M. Mery and Joseph W. Turek. Together, they offer a comprehensive overview of critical information necessary for cardiothoracic surgeons, making this book a vital resource for surgical trainees and practitioners aiming to consolidate their knowledge and stay up to date with evolving clinical standards.
TSRA Review of Cardiothoracic Surgery (2nd Edition) book cover

by Damien J. LaPar, Carlos M. Mery, Joseph W. Turek, Walter F. DeNino, Elizabeth H. Stephens, Vakhtang Tchantchaleishvili, Dustin M. Walters, Mark D. Iannettoni··You?

2016·474 pages·Cardiothoracic Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Cardiac Surgery, Congenital Cardiac, Surgical Guidelines

The authoritative expertise behind this book stems from Damien J. LaPar and his fellow editors, all deeply embedded in cardiothoracic surgery training programs across North America. You’ll find a thorough consolidation of essential knowledge covering general thoracic surgery, adult and congenital cardiac surgery, as well as cardiothoracic trauma and critical care, with updated guidelines reflecting current standards. The book is particularly useful if you’re navigating the demanding landscape of thoracic surgery residency or preparing for board exams, as it presents critical facts and protocols succinctly. Specific chapters on trauma management and congenital defects provide targeted insights that sharpen your clinical acumen without overwhelming detail.

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Best for concise surgical handbook
Joanna Chikwe, a leading cardiothoracic surgeon at Mount Sinai Medical Center, brings her extensive surgical expertise and educational commitment to this handbook. Her influential work in both adult and pediatric cardiac surgery underpins the book's authoritative guidance, offering you a reliable and accessible resource tailored for clinical excellence in cardiothoracic surgery.
Cardiothoracic Surgery (Oxford Specialist Handbooks in Surgery) book cover

by Joanna Chikwe, David Cooke, Aaron Weiss··You?

2013·864 pages·Cardiothoracic Surgery, Paediatric Surgery, Surgery, Cardiac Surgery, Thoracic Surgery

Joanna Chikwe's extensive experience at Mount Sinai Medical Center shapes this detailed guide to adult and pediatric cardiothoracic surgery. The book delivers precise, two-page topic spreads that streamline complex procedures, especially in cardiac and thoracic surgery, along with intensive care insights highlighted for quick reference. Its updated content reflects current guidelines, helping you navigate both common and rare operations with clarity. This handbook suits surgeons and medical professionals seeking a compact yet thorough resource to enhance their clinical decision-making and operative skills in cardiothoracic practice.

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Conclusion

These eight books weave a rich tapestry of cardiothoracic surgery knowledge—from advanced coronary revascularization techniques and practical anesthesia to clinical scenarios and perioperative care. Whether you're honing your surgical skills, preparing for exams, or refining decision-making frameworks, these resources cover the spectrum of challenges you face.

If you're navigating complex coronary artery disease, starting with State of the Art Surgical Coronary Revascularization offers deep procedural insights. For those in residency or early practice, TSRA Clinical Scenarios in Cardiothoracic Surgery and TSRA Review of Cardiothoracic Surgery provide scenario-based learning and exam preparation. Meanwhile, Sabiston and Spencer Surgery of the Chest serves as a cornerstone reference for comprehensive surgical knowledge.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Cardiothoracic Surgery book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. These books and tailored resources can help you accelerate your learning journey with confidence and precision.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which Cardiothoracic Surgery book should I start with?

Start with a book aligned to your current needs. For surgical technique depth, try "State of the Art Surgical Coronary Revascularization." If exam prep or clinical scenarios suit you better, "TSRA Clinical Scenarios in Cardiothoracic Surgery" is ideal. Choose based on your immediate goals to avoid overload.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Cardiothoracic Surgery?

Some books, like "TSRA Clinical Scenarios in Cardiothoracic Surgery," cater to residents and early learners, while others like "Sabiston and Spencer Surgery of the Chest" are more detailed. Beginners can find approachable resources here, but pairing reading with clinical guidance is beneficial.

What's the best order to read these Cardiothoracic Surgery books?

Begin with scenario-based and review books such as "TSRA Review of Cardiothoracic Surgery" or "TSRA Clinical Scenarios" to build foundational knowledge. Then tackle specialized texts like "Manual of Perioperative Care" or "State of the Art Surgical Coronary Revascularization" for deeper expertise.

Do these books assume prior experience in Cardiothoracic Surgery?

Many books assume some clinical background, especially those focused on advanced surgical techniques or anesthesia. However, resources like "TSRA Clinical Scenarios" provide practical case studies that support learning during training stages.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away in surgery?

"TSRA Decision Algorithms in Cardiothoracic Surgery" offers clear frameworks for clinical decisions, making it highly practical. Additionally, "Manual of Perioperative Care in Adult Cardiac Surgery" provides hands-on guidance for managing patients before and after surgery.

How can a personalized Cardiothoracic Surgery book complement these expert resources?

Personalized books tailor expert knowledge to your specific experience, interests, and goals, helping you apply general principles directly in your practice. They bridge gaps between broad texts and your unique needs. Learn more by creating your personalized Cardiothoracic Surgery book.

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