It should come as no surprise (or offense) to surgeons that there is a dearth of articles on ethical issues in major surgical journals. In contrast, major medical journals feature such articles frequently and prominently. A work on surgical ethics is not only timely but necessary.
At the outset, I will say that this book belongs in every medical library where surgical training programs exist, as well as in the library of every practicing surgeon—not only as a constant reminder of essential principles but as a well-thumbed and frequently read tome. The editors have garnered a distinguished collection of authors, often coupling chapter coauthors who are prominent in clinical surgery with authors equally distinguished in clinical ethics. The mix makes for a highly relevant and useful work that conveys authenticity and experience. Illustrative examples of common ethical dilemmas and challenges in surgical practice are liberally distributed throughout all chapters.