This heavily revised book features a variety of cases detailing potential complications in cardiac surgery. Clinical scenarios associated with conundrums and unforeseen circumstances are presented, including minimally invasive and hybrid procedures as well as temporary mechanical circulatory support. Discussions emphasize critical details in preoperative assessment and intraoperative sensemaking, decision making and error recovery. Chapters are structured as unknowns, presenting findings as one would experience the events clinically and challenging the reader to develop their own rescue strategies. Relevant references for further reading are included, enabling the reader to further develop their knowledge base.

Near Misses in Cardiac Surgery is a concise case-based resource featuring instructions on how to deal with potential complications associated with cardiac surgery. The work’s multi-disciplinary authorship ensures it is a valuable resource for all medical professionals involved in the care of cardiac surgical patients.