Cardiothoracic surgery is the specialty involved with the treatment of diseases affecting organs within the chest, principally the heart, lungs and esophagus. It is a relatively young specialty which has grown rapidly since the Second World War (the first successful open heart procedure using the heart-lung machine was performed in 1953). procedures are often lengthy and complex, requiring support from advanced forms of technology during surgery and intensive therapy for the patient after surgery. Cardiothoracic surgeons work closely with cardiologists, oncologists and anesthesiologists and have close professional relationships with other non-medical staff such as perfusionists (who operate the heart-lung bypass machines), intensive care staff and operating department personnel.