Book Review

Skeletal Trauma: Fractures, Dislocations, Ligamentous Injuries

N Engl J Med 1993; 329:366July 29, 1993

Article

Skeletal Trauma: Fractures, Dislocations, Ligamentous Injuries
Edited by Bruce D. Browner, Jesse B. Jupiter, Alan M. Levine, and Peter G. Trafton. 1991 pp. in two volumes, illustrated. Philadelphia, W.B. Saunders, 1992. $275. ISBN: 0-7216-2726-9

I spent several weeks reviewing chapters and looking up specific topics in this encyclopedia of orthopedic trauma. First and foremost, I was impressed by its currency and completeness. All the authors have made a substantial effort to place their topics in historical perspective and to present the most current concepts and approaches to treatment.

The book's shortcomings are relatively minor. On looking up fat embolism, for instance, one finds an excellent discussion of pathophysiology, prevention, and recognition but no suggestion of methods of treatment once the syndrome has been diagnosed. In the chapter on compartmental syndrome, the cross-sectional diagrams do not include the superficial nerves, which are easily injured. Although their location is described in the text, a better diagram would have been helpful.

The organization of this book is excellent, and the inclusion of chapters such as “Gunshot Wounds to the Musculoskeletal System” and “The Ilizarov Method” is very appropriate. The editors' style lends itself to reading a whole chapter at a time, rather than looking up the “recipes” for specific problems in “cookbook” fashion, although it is possible to answer a specific question (such as the current recommended antibiotic prophylaxis for a gunshot wound) relatively easily with the help of the index. The textbook-like style will give this book enduring value.

Overall, this is a major contribution in its collection and organization of information on orthopedic trauma in a single book. It is an appropriate reference work for orthopedic residents and practitioners, as well as for specialists in trauma. Specifically, this book is a must for libraries, teaching programs, and trauma centers.

Andrew F. Brooker, Jr., M.D.
Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD 21205