Thoracic and cardiovascular surgery in Singapore

Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery started in Singapore on the initiative of a number of the leading general surgeons working in general surgical units in the public institutions. Initially, only thoracic surgery was done. This was followed about 15 years later with cardiovascular surgery. A decision was made to establish a Thoracic Surgical Unit at the Tan Tock Seng Hospital in 1965. The Head of Department was appointed. Space had become available at this hospital following the very successful anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy programme. The department was set up in December 1966. It grew steadily over the years. As in other similar centres, the spectrum of patients that underwent operations in the department became predominantly cardiovascular in nature. In December 1981, this department was transferred to the Singapore General Hospital where specialised facilities based on the experience of the surgical team had been installed.