Defence, counterattack, retreat?

Cardio-thoracic surgery is facing changes which are imposed upon us from two sources, medical development within cardiology and the general demographic and economic development of the western world. These two developments have to be faced. This treaty describes one way of thinking in our response to the changes. Using old strategic principles our options are attack, defence and retreat. The three options are described in some detail. In order to be well prepared, knowledge and preparation for all three options is necessary in meeting the challenges of the future.