Foreword

The field of oncoanesthesiology emerged in 2003 with a study investigating the effects of various anesthetic agents on tumor metastasis. Since this study, there have been numerous articles published describing the impact of various anesthetic techniques on natural killer cells, cytokines, T-lymphocytes, and cell apoptosis with the ultimate goal of discovering the preferred anesthetic technique when caring for the patient. This text emphasizes and addresses the importance of the perioperative care of the cancer patient. The anesthesia care these patients require is beyond the knowledge most anesthesia providers gained during their training; the vast body of literature available requires a clear, concise summary. The great news is that both goals are accomplished in this book.

The editors provide an outstanding summary of this emerging specialty, with chapters being written by leading experts. The uniformity in chapter presentation and minimal overlap are a testament to the efforts of the editors to provide a useful book on oncoanesthesiology that will provide new information for both novice and expert anesthesia providers. The inclusion of a chapter on the physiologic changes that occur in a patient with cancer is brilliant and unique. This book is a “must-read” for all who provide anesthesia to patients requiring surgery for cancer. Enjoy the read; You will be glad that you invested your time in reading this book.