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Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery and Medical Tests — eBook

"First published in 2004, this considerably expanded edition includes 535 clearly written entries by medical writers, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists on the process of medical testing and surgery. From amniocentesis (to diagnose fetal defects) to vertical banded gastroplastry (stomach stapling), entries describe purpose, terms, precautions, description, preparation, risks, and results. A great ready-reference for students in nursing and allied health as well as the general public."
--Library Journal, April 2010

"This resource provides in-depth coverage of approximately 500 surgical procedures, medical tests, and related topics such as common laboratory procedures, medications, and postoperative care. This comprehensive work, which combines specific information on tests and procedures with broader essays, will be especially useful for the general public and students in nursing and allied health. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-and upper-level undergraduates; general readers."
--Choice, February 2010

"In its detailed descriptions of a wide range of medical procedures, the second edition of The Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery and Medical Tests conveys the necessary information to contextualize those clinical interventions in an accessible yet authoritative manner. Each entry features guidance in terms of preoperative preparation, aftercare, morbidity and mortality associated with the procedure, and perhaps most importantly, non-surgical alternatives, including the likely results of inaction, or "watchful waiting." A bibliography of recent related books, periodicals, organizations and online resources offers avenues for further research. The history and refinement of many procedures is chronicled, and some indication as to how routinized the procedure might be considered is given. Also described are the length of time typically involved for both the procedure and recovery, and whether local or general anesthesia is the norm. Highlighted questions to ask the doctor for each procedure are particularly comprehensive and will demonstrate the patient's advocacy for their own well-being. More general articles include choosing a surgeon, surgical preparation, pain management, and post-surgical infections. Cross-references within the encyclopedia direct the reader to other articles when appropriate. Its most striking aspect, are the full-color visuals that enable the patient and caregivers to envision the procedure quite vividly. Pencil drawings depict the human body in cross-section, with sequential details demonstrating the process with appropriate surgical equipment, approach, and technique, with the occasional photograph from the operating theater as well. Recommended for public libraries, where it will allay the inevitable anxieties medical procedures or testing inspire."
--Reference Unbound, October 2009

"Readers will find the scope of entries to be broad and informative. This reference is recommended for ready reference in public, community college, medical school, and academic libraries."
--ARBA, July 2009