This latest addition to the Endocrine Surgical library is a gem to be savored at leisure. It is a comprehensive review and is on the cutting edge of current knowledge regarding surgical endocrinology. The fact that the three outstanding editors of Endocrine Surgery are from widely separated geographic continents (Europe, Asia and America) clearly establishes the flavor for this international contribution. The surgical arena and the endocrine surgical subspe- alty, in particular, is truly international in scope, as it should be, and today represents a unique close knit family. This is a healthy phenomenon for it allows rapid and constant exchange of information and ideas by dedicated surgeons, endocrinologists, pathologists, radiologists, and researchers who personally know and respect each other, and who share a clear cut common goal - to simply do what is best for each and every patient afflicted with an endocrine disorder. The astute reader of this encompassing collectionofcontributions will notice a ''changing of the guard'' phenomenon as well. Although there are well-known players in this endocrine surgical orchestra, there are, pleasingly, a number of less well-known (albeit for a short time only) contributors. This is very good indeed and is something that pleases me - a member of the old guard, immensely. The success of surgical education, and as a consequence, of patient care, is that each successive generation should be better and wiser than the prec- ing one. If this is not so, the previous generation has dismally failed.

With the recent surge of interest within the world of endocrine surgery, and resultant significant changes in the way this surgery is performed, Endocrine Surgery: Principles and Practice caters for those entering this field. The book provides the reader with extensive knowledge and advice on all aspects of the topic, presenting a broad yet concise coverage of endocrine surgery, making this a must-read for residents, specialist registrars in training and for surgeons looking for an up-to-date synopsis of endocrine surgery. The book is split into six sections covering Thyroid, Parathyroid, Adrenal, Pancreas, Carcinoid and Familial Endocrine conditions. Chapters include such topics as Thyrotoxicosis and Thyroiditis, Management of the Laryngeal Nerves and Voice, Focused Parathyroidectomy and Gastrinoma.

Written in a concise and readable style, featuring bullet points, lists and tables highlighting best practice, this text makes for easy referencing.  Self-assessment material at the end of each section aids personal study, and makes this volume a perfect companion to those revising for board examinations and fellowship examinations. 

Endocrine Surgery: Principles and Practice is compiled by expert authors from the USA, Europe and Asia, providing an international perspective on the basic knowledge and clinical management required for the optimal care of patients.

Johnathan G H Hubbard, MD, FRCS, Consultant Endocrine Surgeon & Clinical LeadEndocrine Surgery, Guys & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.

William B. Inabnet, III, MD, Co-Director, New York Thyroid Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Associate Professor of Clinical Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY, USA; Chief, Endocrine Surgery Section, New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.

Chung-Yau Lo, FRCS, FACS, Chief, Division of Endocrine Surgery, Clinical Professor & Honorary Consultant, Department of Surgery, University of Hong Kong Medical Centre, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam, Hong Kong and Clinical Professor, Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong.

From the reviews:

"This new endocrine surgery book comprehensively covers both the fundamentals as well as most current aspects of the field. ? It is targeted primarily at endocrine surgeons and general surgeons or residents with a particular interest in endocrine surgery. ? endocrinologists, radiologists, or nuclear medicine physicians would also find the book useful. ? The chapters are well written and enjoyable to read. ? The liberal use of images and color figures adds tremendously to the text and distinguishes this book." (Sonia L. Sugg, Doody's Review Service, December, 2009)

"This comprehensive review of the current literature and practice in endocrine surgery takes the time to describe procedural processes necessary to perform the current surgical therapies. ? This book is highly informative for developing residents and a great review for practicing surgeons. ? This is a well written book that will benefit those in training and keep those in practice up to date with the latest advances in the field." (Julie Cupp, Doody's Review Service, March, 2012)