title: [Japanese thoracic surgery; a view from the United States].
abstract: Ten years ago, I attempted to make a prospective over-view on the future of Japanese thoracic and cardiovascular surgery in this journal. Similarly, I am giving a perspective on the same subject from the American point of view. The steady increase in Japanese contribution to the 2 peer-reviewed American journals is impressive. The membership in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons also shows a significant growth among Japanese surgeons. Presentations in the recent professional meetings by the Japanese thoracic surgeons has increased, both in numbers and in quality. Their strength is seen in lung cancer, aortic surgery, congenital heart defects, and basic science fields. They are also moving toward establishing standards in postgraduate training and in the practice of their specialty. The current effort for creating a data-base in their fields is well appreciated by the western hemisphere. Finally, their cooperation with other Asian and Pacific colleagues deserves praise from the U.S. as well. It is my humble opinion that the Japanese thoracic and cardiovascular surgery has reached the matuirity and is ready to produce abundant fruits.
authors.affiliation: Department of Thoracic Surgery, Southwestern Medical Center, University of Texas, Dallas, USA.
authors.forename: Hisashi
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Nikaidoh
mesh_terms: D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D007391:International Cooperation; D013903:Thoracic Surgery / Q000592:standards*; D014481:United States; D000078329:Workforce