A stitch in time | |
Practical plastic surgery for nonsurgeons. Nadine B Semer. Philadelphia: Hanley and Belfus, 2001 (ix + 390 pp). ISBN 1 56053 478 8. |
The author of this book believes that injuries commonly encountered by primary care physicians (general practitioners) can, without appropriate corrective treatment, lead to disabilities that can ultimately destroy livelihoods and families. She also believes that providing basic plastic surgical training can empower primary care physicians working in remote circumstances to provide simple but effective treatment, utilising readily available equipment and minimal resources. The author is a clinical instructor in the Division of Plastic Surgery at the University of California, Los Angeles. She has written a very readable book for medical practitioners with little or no formal surgical training who are working in remote areas. It deals with the surgical treatment of traumatic and thermal wounds and gives clear descriptions of plastic surgical techniques, from debridement, suturing and local anaesthesia through to skin grafts and various skin flaps. Other areas, such as skin cancer, cleft lip and palate surgery, breast surgery and the treatment of surgical infections, are also covered. A third of the book is devoted to hand injuries, infections and other hand conditions and their treatment. Much of the book is basic general surgery, with the plastic surgery emphasis on meticulous technique and attention to detail. The aim is a good functional outcome and returning the patient to productive life as soon as possible. Not only would this book be useful in the libraries of isolated medical centres, it would also be useful reading for junior medical staff and nurses in emergency departments. There are many good illustrations and it is written in a helpful and friendly style. With a recommended retail price of $85.25, it represents good value for money. Bruce Johnstone
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