Avoiding Common Surgical Errors

Abstract

Avoiding Common Surgical Errors is a unique handbook that addresses the most common pitfalls encountered in general surgical practice. Potential errors are organized according to the venue in which they are most likely to occur (ie, emergency department; operating room; wards; intensive care unit) or by category (ie, medications; lines, drains, and tubes; wounds; bleeding; gastrointestinal tract; laboratory). In turn, a brief synopsis of each error includes a relevant anatomic or physiologic summary and specific suggestions for avoidance of the error, or management of complications resulting from the error. Relevant illustrations, radiographs, and photographs are included where appropriate. References for more detailed reading are specified after each synopsis. This book will be useful to all healthcare providers caring for surgical patients, but will be especially helpful to residents, interns, and medical students. Skimming the book for familiarity prior to a general surgery rotation can easily be accomplished within an hour. This brief review will then enable the house officer or student to use the book as a quick but detailed reference for specific dilemmas encountered when on call or in the day-to-day management of surgical patients. The book can also be used as a teaching tool, providing ideas for teaching rounds relevant to specific patients. The axiom that errors can only be avoided if they are known to exist is all too true. Avoiding Common Surgical Errors provides a practical tool for familiarization with the most common mistakes encountered in surgical practice and the steps necessary to avoid them.