The Cardiovascular and Thoracic Anaesthesia Seminar will be held at Kapama Game Reserve, South Africa, 24-28 February 2008, immediately preceding the World Congress of Anaesthesia. The target audience are clinicians with an interest in cardiothoracic and vascular anaesthesia. The programme aims to update delegates on state of the art practice and stimulate discussion about current themes. Speakers are world-renowned and work in leading international units. Topics to be covered include: advances in cardiovascular anaesthesia and physiology; the immune system, blood products and coagulation; peri-operative organ protection and support; lung isolation and protective strategies; transoesophageal echocardiography; update on vascular anaesthesia; monitoring and imaging; intensive care. The format will be lecture based combined with case discussions and interaction with the faculty. A stimulating seminar is expected against the backdrop of an exceptional African outdoor experience in a luxurious game lodge. www.anaes2008.co.za