The trauma, vascular, and most GI sections are fairly well written. Though each chapter is quite lengthy, there is a lack of uniform length and clarity from chapter to chapter which makes the reading style somewhat difficult. At times, chapter authors regurgitate statistics and major findings to provide an “evidence-based text,” Unfortunately, the dizzying array of numbers and references are incohesive without major conclusions being drawn by the chapter authors. It’s easy to find oneself at the end of a 30 page chapter and asking, “so what were the major take -home points?” Though many chapters emphasize basic science relevance, a balance to the clinical side is at times lacking, and leaves the house officer with unsatisfied experience.

Overall, though, the information is plentiful. At times the reading is verbose – but then perhaps that’s the point of this text.

Rating: 3 / 5
Greenfield’s Surgery: Scientific Principles And Practice