[Intensive care treatment following thoracic surgery].

Intensive care in thoracic surgery requires highly specialised abilities and knowledge in addition to usual intensive care standards. The operative chest intensivist must be experienced in special surgical methods, interventional bronchology, and tube management. Cooperating with chest physicians and anaesthesiologists, he takes the central position in intensive therapy. This is described in detail and explained by examples. Furthermore, aspects of education in this specialty will be emphasised.