Book reviews
Minimal Access Medicine and Surgery -Prindples and Techniques D. Rosin (ed.). 252 x 192mrn. Pp. 279. Illustrated. 1993. Oxford: Radclifle Medical Press. €39.50. This is the first volume of a series on minimally invasive therapy (MIT).
It contains brief chapters on the history and philosophy followed by ten chapters describing current techniques in diferent specialties. Material is presented enthusiastically and in a positive light.
The book aims to give a generalized overview of MIT, plus some of the basic principles of technique, rather than an exhaustive account of all aspects of an individual field; presumably these are to be covered in future single-specialty volumes. MIT is developing rapidly and the overview rather than detail will appeal to the many surgeons who want to know the concepts and techniques used in other specialties so that they may be considered for application in their own. Different authors succeed to different degrees, but the overall readability is high.
Some chapters border on excessive length; upper gastrointestinal endoscopy receives particular attention. However, it is noticeable that this chapter has more depth and feels more authoritative than some of the others, which are more anecdotal. No doubt this reflects the 30 years' experience existing in gastrointestinal endoscopy compared with the short history of the latest developments.
Overall, this is an enjoyable, informative and stimulating book that illustrates how MIT has touched all aspects of modem surgery.
That it is more for the coffee-table than the reference shelf is not a criticism. For those launching into MIT it is a worthwhile read.