Book excerpt: Extracorporeal circulation has become firmly established as an invaluable and routine adjunct to cardiac and vascular surgery. Since its introduction in 1953, the technique has evolved rapidly with advancing technology leading to improvements in and simplification of the equipment involved. Developments in the understanding and application of basic science have also had a huge impact as our understanding of the complex anatomy, biochemistry, pharmacology and pathophysiology of the heart continues to grow. It is these advances in both technology and science that form the basis of this fourth edition of Techniques in Extracorporeal Cirulation. The book continues to provide a comprehensive overview of the field, covering both established techniques for those new to the field of extracorporeal circulation, and current and future developments. It attempts to answer some of the innumerable practical problems associated with the routine use of artificial circulation and oxygenation, and hopes to stimulate thought and debate among its readers regarding more complex or controversial issues. Topics new to the fourth edition include robotic surgery and off-pump surgery, while other chapters have been thoroughly revised and updated to take into account developments and changes in the field. With its multidisciplinary approach, the book will remain an essential reference for all health care professionals working in the cardiac surgical operating room, in particular cardiothoracic surgeons, anaesthetists and perfusionists.