The Oxford Textbook of Surgery, 2nd Edition provides a comprehensive reference on all aspects of general surgery, and includes substantial sections on the subspecialties such as orthopedics, pediatric surgery, neurosurgery, and cardiac surgery. It has been designed for specialist and trainee surgeons working in any part of the world. The uniques, full-color design of the Textbook has been enhanced for this edition. There are major new sections on, for example, molecular biology and evidence-based surgery. Other key sections, written by world authorities, include those on endoscopic surgery, surgical nutrition, response to injury, the design and interpretation of clinical trials, causes of cancer, vascular surgery and the selection of surgical trainees. Almost every other section has been rewritten by a new contributor or heavily revised to reflect new developments and emphases in the field. Like other Oxford Textbooks there is an emphasis on the 'humane' approach with chapters on counseling bereaved relatives, pain relief and the care of the dying. An international faculty combine to make this a unique contribution to the field.