Daniel J. Berry and Scott P. Steinmann, editors. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins; 2007. 464 pages. $99.00. ISBN: 978-0-7817-9638-5.
This is one of a series of publications entitled "Orthopaedic Surgery Essentials." The publications are directed toward the young resident and are meant to provide an organized study model for a broad background in orthopaedic surgery. The two editors of this book have provided an excellent approach toward accomplishing this goal with regard to adult reconstruction.
The book is well written, easily readable, and organized in a way that should be of great value to the young resident. A number of features, including tables, charts, and diagnostic algorithms, make this book very attractive and provide an excellent summary of an approach to accumulating knowledge in adult reconstruction.
The bibliography contains both classic and contemporary references for additional reading, which should help the resident to continue to read the important literature. The book may also be of value to orthopaedic surgeons as they prepare for recertification examinations. The areas covered in hip and knee surgery are extensive and provide an excellent background in physical diagnosis and diagnostic studies. The chapters discussing radiographic evaluation of each area are well presented. Furthermore, the surgical treatment sections, although not extensive, provide an excellent basis for understanding surgical treatment.
There are, however, a number of issues of minor concern. The chapter divisions are somewhat fragmented and could have been combined for a better organization of the covered areas. Some of the figures could have improved labeling to help the resident understand the intent of the illustrations. The physical examination sections are repeated a number of times for the same anatomic area in multiple chapters, and combining them would improve the flow of information. Although this publication is primarily focused on the young resident who is beginning service on an adult reconstructive surgical ward, a large part of the book also addresses upper-extremity problems. Additionally, trauma problems are presented in a number of chapters that discuss upper-extremity problems. This may well confuse the reader, and it detracts from the intended goal of the publication. Additionally, the size of the book will make it difficult for a resident to carry and use it on a daily basis as a learning tool.
Overall, this publication should be part of the library of a young orthopaedic surgeon because it does provide a well-organized approach to obtaining a knowledge base in adult reconstructive surgery. Finally, the resident must understand that these books are only the beginning of the reading required for obtaining competence in orthopaedic surgery.