Book review

Abstract

In the face of the current debate on ‘cadaverless’ teaching of anatomy (Guttmann et al. 2004; McLachlan et al. 2004), the publication of the 13th edition of this classic ‘cook book’ of human dissection is a vindication of the irreplaceably tried and true method of gaining anatomical knowledge. With a new author assuming the mantle of this eponymous ‘Dissector’ with a 60-year publication record, the realities of the reduced curriculum time allocated for anatomical dissection are taken into account. The book is highly integrated with its complementary Grant's Atlas of Anatomy, 12th edition (although incorrectly indicating the 11th edition, page 4), and with three other popular anatomical atlases. The dissection instructions are organized into seven ‘stand alone’ topographic regions that allow for interchangeable approaches to the order of dissection. Each regional description follows a set pattern of surface anatomy, then osteology, with a preview of ‘before you dissect …’, followed by explicit instructions in a numbered sequence. A review, ‘after you dissect …’ emphasizes the significant facts and includes specific references (page and plate numbers) to four anatomical atlases. This theme is in keeping with the best tradition of reiteration and reinforcement as a pedagogical protocol that makes this text an admirable tutor. Colour-coded boxes distinguish the xanthochroic ‘Dissection Instructions’ from the cerulean ‘Clinical Correlations’, interspersed with clear, appropriately coloured drawings of the anatomical structures and the best approach to their dissection. The terminology used is in accordance with the Terminologia Anatomica, reducing potential confusion of nomenclature. The glossy paper on which this book is printed will serve to some extent to repel the ravages of dissection-room exposure. The spiralbound version will more likely survive the inevitable expansive opening for which the text is designed. In summary, a highly recommended tool for dissection.