This unique and comprehensive book covers the evolution of plastic surgery from ancient to modern times. The knowledge of wound healing and how this has changed and influenced plastic surgery is covered in the first part. The development of the basic techniques of the specialty such as skin flaps, the grafting of skin and other tissues are followed throughout the centuries. In the Second Part the development of various surgical reconstructive procedures are described. The reader will realize how techniques which are routine today have evolved thanks to the ingenuity of our surgical ancestors. Finally in Part Three the birth of Cosmetic Surgery, which has fulfilled the dreams of our ancestors, is outlined. Its rapid development is described stressing the efforts required to overcome the prejudices and criticism. The book includes invaluable data and illustrations from the Sanvenero Rosselli Foundation.
Rezensionen / Stimmen
From the reviews:
"This overview of plastic surgery is particularly focused on the development of surgical procedures, describing in detail the evolution of these procedures. The purpose is to demonstrate the growth of plastic surgery techniques. . This book is clearly aimed at physicians and residents . . The detail provided on the surgical procedures would be of interest to practitioners. Illustrations and text emphasize the procedures themselves . ." (Patricia E. Gallagher, Doody's Review Service, November, 2007)
"...The volume's 400 or so figures are testament to three millennia of piecing body parts together and reconstructing or correcting them for functional or cosmetic purposes. The authors have scrutinized rare ancient texts and drawings to gain insight into early medical practices, including the crucial adjuncts of anaesthesia, blood transfusion and treatment of infection, some of which survived for thousands of years..." (Nature, Vol. 450, December 2007)
"The text is set out clearly and methodically with numerous impressive color illustrations. The book gives ample evidence that plastic surgery is one of the oldest surgical specialties, with procedures that often transcend the anatomical boundaries that define and limit other specialties. . Each chapter tells an absorbing story that is well illustrated with images . . an accessible and informative book that will be referred to constantly by trainee and veteran plastic surgeons alike." (Iain S. Whitaker, New England Journal of Medicine, March, 2008)
