Review of Hand Surgery

Abstract

Review of Hand Surgery, edited by Pedro K. Beredjiklian, M.D., and David J. Bozentka, M.D., is a recently published text for orthopaedic surgeons. The book is intended to serve as a source of reference for hand surgeons and any other health care professionals involved in the care of hand and upper-extremity patients. At 275 pages, it is a succinct, yet comprehensive source for clinicians. The editors have organized the book chapters into outline form with the stated goal of “providing the reader with a complete yet easy-to-access source of information.” There are 13 chapters that cover essentially every area of hand surgery, including fractures, soft-tissue injuries, microsurgery, tumors, and infection. In addition, there are excellent chapters devoted to both pediatric hand surgery and rehabilitation, 2 topics often omitted from some review texts. The first chapter, which is devoted to anatomy, is particularly outstanding, with helpful descriptions and illustrations of complex anatomy. The chapters are written by some of the leading surgeons in the field of hand surgery. The text does not include chapters devoted to shoulder or elbow disorders. The outline form of each chapter is extremely easy to follow and allows quick reference. There are numerous black and white photographs, radiographs, and illustrations that clearly help to clarify the major points. These features allow for easy retention of the material, which is particularly important for those studying for the in-training or board examinations. The book is designed as a reference source for hand surgeons but is also an excellent source for the general orthopaedist. In addition, residents and fellows will find it an invaluable tool for board or CAQ testing review. Finally, physical therapists will also find the book helpful when treating hand and upper-extremity patients. In the words of the editors in the preface, the “text is designed to be a comprehensive review of disorders related to hand and upper-extremity surgery.” The book certainly achieves this goal and is clearly a valuable addition to the library of any clinician involved in the diagnosis and treatment of upper-extremity disorders.