This precise and thorough textbook provides a fresh insight into problem-based learning. An integrated approach is presented that allows the development of an organised and logical system for solving clinical problems encountered by patients. The informative text encourages the reader to acquire a focused history, complete a detailed physical examination and then develop a differential diagnosis and relevant management plan. Such a problem-orientated clinical approach is invaluable for the inexperienced and is recommended for anyone preparing for examinations at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
The book is organised into nine chapters, which cover regional problems such as abdomen and gut problems, limb problems and urogenital problems. An additional four chapters are devoted to more general aspects of surgery including common medical problems in surgical patients, post-operative problems, intensive care and trauma. A broad range of topics is covered in an accurate and up-to-date manner. The text is well written and easy to read.
Each chapter focuses on the problem presented by the patient and then describes the clinical reasoning necessary for diagnosis and formulating a tailored treatment pathway. Pattern recognition of common surgical diseases is presented in a succinct and easily learnt style with useful tables and diagrams. There are no colour photographs but the black and white photographs and radiographs complement the text. Many line diagrams are included and these are simple and informative. The book also includes valuable advice on recording progress notes, reviewing unwell patients, writing discharge summaries and presenting case histories.
The appeal of this book is broad and it will be useful to medical students and those preparing for postgraduate exams, as well as doctors wishing to refine their clinical surgical skills. The problem-orientated approach is a useful tool and is expertly presented by the authors.