Deceiving insurance companies: new expression of an ancient tradition11This editorial inaugurates a planned series of articles, published at irregular intervals, which address contemporary ethical issues facing general thoracic and cardiac surgeons. Dr Robert M. Sade, Associate Editor for Ethics, will lead this effort and plans a series of editorials and pro and con discussions. The intent of these articles is to raise the sensitivity of our readers to ethical issues and to support the high standards and integrity of our profession. L. Henry Edmunds, Jr, MD, Editor