The Annals of Cardiothoracic Surgery is an online, bi-monthly, peer reviewed publication whose primary objective is to provide critical analysis and a comprehensive overview of contemporary topics within cardiothoracic surgery. Each issue is over-seen by a special Guest Editor (an international authority on the subject) and is explored through the following sections: Systematic Reviews, Original Studies, Research Highlights, Perspectives, Safeguards and Pitfalls, Illustrated Articles and “Masters of Cardiothoracic Surgery” , which is an interactive multimedia section featuring operative videos provided by renowned surgeons. Online forums are provided for topic-related communication between surgeons. A patient information page is also included.