Foreword

There are many excellent surgical textbooks ranging from the large volume complete text, to the more concise paperbacks. Surgeons generally use these books only as references. There are also text books that principally emphasize therapy, and there are other textbooks that are based on organs, or disease processes. Each of these texts appeal to its own following. This new book edited by Dr. Martin A. Makary entitled, General Surgery Review, I think will find a niche amongst young surgeons, particularly those about to take an In-Training, Board Examinations, or recertification. This book is aimed at general surgeons, but also includes specialty information that is important for the general surgeon. Each chapter is written by a young academic surgeon, some of them still in training. This is the group that is taking or has recently taken In-Training Examinations and/or their Surgical Boards, and they are very familiar with the material that is important to review for these examinations.

This new text follows the format that is generally used in imparting information in the surgical setting, that of asking a question. It is a variation of the Socratic method. It has been said that a young student or resident has spent a successful day, if during the course of that day they have asked at least one important, critical, crucial question. This book is comprised of those questions, with short concise answers. Some of the questions have to do with anatomy, most have to do with patient presentations. Some of the chapters are organ oriented such as spleen, pancreas, and liver, whereas others are discipline oriented, such as transplantation, trauma, and otolaryngology. Still others are oriented towards a clinical entity such as GI bleeding, pulmonary embolus, and burn management.

There are several unique aspects of this particular textbook. First of all, it will not be used as a principle source of information, but as a review. Individuals benefiting from this text will already have to have a broad base of information that they are in need of reviewing prior to a conference, an examination, or a patient encounter. This textbook has the advantage of allowing a great deal of information to be reviewed in a brief time period. It is very readable and easy to follow. We tend to remember facts and figures better if they are presented in the context of a clinical situation. I believe the format used by Dr. Makary will allow individuals to review a broad spectrum of material in a relatively short period of time with a great deal of retention.

It is always difficult to predict whether a new text will find a niche, develop a following, and be successful. My guess is that this book, which is the product of a great deal of work by Dr. Makary, will be an important addition to the books used by students, residents, and practicing surgeons in a variety of settings. It is well done, concise, and presents a tremendous amount of information that is easily reviewed in a short period of time. Dr. Makary is to be complimented for this contribution.

John L. Cameron, M.D.
The Alfred Blalock Distinguished Service Professor
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine