Colour Atlas of Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery

Abstract

Anthony G. Tyers and J. Richard O. Collin Colour Atlas of Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery, 2nd ed.360 pagesButterworth Heinemann, Oxford, 2001.Isbn 0750642548Price: £ 130.00 The first edition of this atlas appeared in 1995. In the second, the authors' have revised the text and added previously omitted procedures and newer techniques like the use of hard palate grafts. Homologous grafts, especially donor sclera, have given rise to great concern (or even become abandoned) in many states. Although still useful, alternative materials are presented in this edition. Introductory chapters cover relevant anatomy, evaluation, anaesthesia, instruments, and basic surgical principles. The 13 following chapters focus on lid surgery; there are also thorough descriptions of enucleation/evisceration and socket reconstruction and a brief chapter on orbital decompression. The authors have selected well documented procedures for the treatment of all frequent and many less often occurring conditions. The text is brief, logical and extremely clear, and there should be little difficulty to follow the course recommended. Colour photographs of superb quality illustrate almost every step of the operations. It is self-evident that the reviewer does not agree with all the authors' opinions. I would sometimes select less elaborate techniques (e.g. for a lateral tarsorrhaphy) and I never use Frost sutures after ptosis surgery, a spacer for upper eyelid retraction, etc. I can neither accept the general recommendation of a dressing after lid surgery. There are minor errors of no practical importance, e.g. the so-called Kuhnt-Szymanowski operation which is not the original one but a late modification. Of somewhat greater importance for the less experienced surgeon is the slightly confusing order of presentation of tumour surgery. Also, I do not think that many of those buying this book would (or should) perform a Mustardé cheek flap. In its place, the Hewes laterally based tarsoconjunctival flap and the tarsomarginal flap of Hübner could have been detailed. This is minor criticism; the surgeon who operates according to the book will do a prime job. When asked to recommend a manual for oculoplastic surgery, I have earlier most often suggested the first edition; the second one is even more recommendable.