Pediatric Surgery, 2nd Edition.
470 pp. $55.00 Austin, TX: Landes Bioscience. 2009.
These five editors are experienced, recognized leaders in pediatric surgery. Dr. Arensman was on staff at the Ochsner Clinic for several years, and Dr. Adolph is currently the senior pediatric surgeon at the Ochsner Clinic. The other 45 contributors range from younger physicians in training to experienced clinicians. Most of the chapters are authored or coauthored by the editors. The text is grouped into 15 sections and 97 chapters. Each chapter is short and consistently divided into sections to aid the reader. The broad spectrum of conditions managed by pediatric surgeons is adequately covered. In keeping with its intent to provide succinct information, the text is not internally referenced, but suggested readings from larger textbooks and journals are provided at the end of each chapter. The illustrations and figures are in black and white and are sufficient to explain basic principles. Unfortunately, little technical information on procedures is included. The appendix provides a helpful list of common drugs and dosages used in pediatric patients.
This text succeeds in providing a ready reference for information on common surgical problems of childhood. Its size allows it to fit in a laboratory coat pocket, and its reasonable cost supports widespread distribution. Although the minimal technical descriptions limit this handbook's usefulness to surgical house officers, I would recommend it for the younger members of the team (especially students, nurses, and pediatric residents) who participate in the care of these challenging patients.
- Academic Division of Ochsner Clinic Foundation