Book Review: Ambulatory Anesthesia: The Requisites in Anesthesiology.

Abstract

This North American book is one of The Requisites in Anesthesiology series and it covers all topics on ambulatory anaesthesia. Each chapter is written by a different combination of authors. I found it an upto-date and easy-to-read book with a good scientific basis. There are many well-organised summary boxes and diagrams. Controversies and clinical guidelines are clearly outlined. Case studies add to the appeal. Some issues, particularly in the administration sections, relate to North American practice. The standard topics such as patient selection, postoperative nausea and vomiting and discharge criteria are covered well. Pharmacology and regional anaesthesia are also summarised. Throughout the book, current issues such as obstructive sleep apnoea, herbal medications, implantable defibrillators and neurologic monitoring are discussed. Geriatric anesthesia is detailed. The chapter on dentistry and office-based surgery definitely has a North American perspective, but the safety principles are emphasised. There is a comprehensive list of references and suggested readings at the end of each chapter. The older standard references are complemented by recent ones. This book would complement any existing medical library. It would be of value to a wide range of health professionals involved in Day Care Anaesthesia. In this regard it is good value for money. R. LIMB