Skeletal Injury in the Child, 3rd Edition

Abstract

Skeletal Injury in the Child, 3rd Edition Author: OGDEN, John A., MD (Atlanta Medical Center)Bibliographic Data: (ISBN: 0-387-98510-7, Springer-Verlag New York, Inc., 2000, $295.00) 1198 pages, hard cover Audiences: Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons, Orthopedic Residents Subjects: Orthopedics, Pediatrics, Sports Medicine Other Info: The book contains black-and-white illustrations Description: Injuries of the growing child are the focus of this book. PURPOSE: The basic purpose is to help the treating physician diagnose and successfully treat an injury of a skeletally immature patient. The author supports his recommendations by drawing from his wealth of knowledge on human anatomy and morphologic materials. These objectives are fully met by the author. AUDIENCE: The book is written mainly for orthopedists caring for children and all orthopedic residents. Obviously, it is an excellent reference book for radiologists, emergency room physicians, pediatricians, and physical and occupational therapists. The author is a highly respected pediatric orthopedic surgeon who is internationally well known. ASSESSMENT: There is a growing trend to opt for surgical treatment for certain childhood fractures over the traditional nonoperative methods. Insertion of femoral rods or external fixator application for femoral shaft fractures have resulted in shorter hospitalization and increased patient mobility during the healing of the fracture. This text includes discussion of these new treatment trends. In 1980 BG Weber and Associates published a text entitled Treatment of Fractures in Children and Adolescents. These Swiss surgeons were not afraid to recommend surgical alternatives for a number of fractures, which were traditionally treated by closed reduction and external immobilization. It may be more than coincidental that both Weber’s and Ogden’s books are published by Springer. This new text is the most complete work on pediatric orthopedic trauma that I have seen and it represents a most significant contribution to the care of the injured child. I very highly recommend it to all orthopedists caring for children with injuries. It is a ‘must’ orthopedic reference book for all medical science libraries and other medical professionals who deal with musculoskeletal trauma. SCORE: Weighted Numerical Score: 96 - ****