This is a revision textbook aimed at higher surgical trainees. At first glance, it appears to be a rather dry collection of lists encompassing a range of topics in what would have traditionally been termed ‘general surgery’. However, that impression is incorrect and probably arises from what may have been ‘lost in translation’ from the German. The book includes chapters on pre- and perioperative management, ear, nose and throat surgery, thoracics, vascular, colorectal, upper gastrointestinal and hepatopancreatobiliary surgery. Shorter chapters on transplantation, neuroendocrine and soft tissue tumours as well as emergency and trauma surgery are also included.
There are a few standout sections in the book and I was particularly impressed with the level of detail in the chapter discussing hernia surgery. The information provided is current and every chapter ends with a list of further suggested reading. There are a number of detailed illustrations included in the text; these generally accompany descriptions of practical procedures such as the ‘insertion of chest drains’ or operative procedures demonstrating resection planes. Overall, this is a well written revision aid for senior trainees about to embark on the fellowship examination in general surgery.