Why should thoracic surgeons understand basic biology?

Thoracic surgery is undergoing major changes. In addition to the well publicized political and economic upheavals, our patients and the diseases targeted are rapidly evolving. Much of the change is driven by an explosion of new biology that many in the field have little or no familiarity with. As molecular biology, immunology, and information about cytokines pervade our literature and practices, it is imperative that thoracic surgeons develop a basic understanding of these and other unique concepts. The best link between our clinical practice and the new biology is thoracic surgical scientists who are exposed to current information.