Since Alan Apley published the first edition of this book the world has changed considerably and so has the practice of orthopaedic surgery. In 1959, hip replacement was rare and had high failure rates, knee replacement and arthroscopy did not exist and fractures were primarily treated in traction. The last edition of this book commented on the projected impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The epidemic has largely been brought under control, with effective treatment resulting in normal life expectancy for sufferers. However, in untreated individuals, the incidence of secondary infection such as tuberculosis is high and the prognosis is still dire. It is interesting and encouraging to note that both the National Joint Registry for England and Wales and the Malawian Joint Registry have shown that hip replacement is an effective treatment for patients who have multimorbidity which includes AIDS with no increased risk of early postoperative mortality compared with patients who do not have AIDS.
Over the lifetime of this book many treatments have been invented, extensively used, found to be ineffective or suboptimal and subsequently have declined dramatically in popularity. Examples of this include arthroscopic debridement for knee osteoarthritis, metal-on-metal hip replacement and excision arthroplasty of the distal ulna. It is important that we continue to challenge the efficacy of existing and novel treatments. In a world of increasing global need orthopaedics has to be proven to be efficacious and cost-effective. Since 1959, the world’s population has more than doubled to over 7 billion people and has aged considerably. Life expectancy at birth is now 80 years in Europe and 74 years in Asia. There are still marked disparities – for instance Japan has a life expectancy at birth of 83 years compared to 57 years in South Africa – but these differences are narrowing. It is projected that by 2050 4% of the world’s population (but 16% of Japan’s population) will be over 80 years of age.

Trauma and Orthopaedics at a Glance PDF Free Download

This compact book provides a general overview of the most common orthopaedic problems encountered on wards and in clinics. It is not an exhaustive tome, but will furnish the reader with key facts on which to base further reading. It is also suitable as a revision guide for medical school finals. Orthopaedics is a fascinating and hugely varied speciality. The patients range from newborn infants to the elderly. The pathologies vary from minor aches and pains to life‐threatening trauma. Orthopaedic operations are hands‐on procedures, combining knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics. Working as a junior doctor in orthopaedics should be one of the best jobs of the foundation years: there is something for everyone. Those leaning towards a future in general medicine will enjoy managing the many medical conditions encountered on the ward, while those looking to a career as a GP will have the opportunity to learn about the myriad musculoskeletal injuries that we treat. Finally, those intending to pursue a career as a surgeon will have the opportunity to acquire surgical skills in theatre. Sadly, many medical schools still spend far too little time teaching orthopaedics. This speciality is quite different from any other.
The nature of the work is unique and the terminology is different. It is often the first time many foundation doctors are given significant responsibility on the wards. In addition, new doctors will be expected to present cases in the morning trauma meetings, invariably a harrowing experience at first. Therefore many junior doctors start their foundation job feeling underprepared. This book addresses that deficit. It is aimed at senior medical students and foundation doctors, though those in other professions such as nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists will find it helpful. I would suggest that foundation doctors spend around 15 minutes on each chapter, and read two every day. By the end of the first month you will have read the whole book and have a good understanding of the main conditions you are likely to encounter. I have followed the proven at a Glance format: full‐page illustrations are paired with concise text. There are six sections: basic sciences; adult orthopaedics; paediatric orthopaedics; trauma; a section for a junior doctor in orthopaedics and finally a simple guide on performing a selected range of practical procedures. The last two sections are unique and will be helpful to those starting out in clinical orthopaedics. I have tried to use as many X‐rays as possible throughout, all taken from real patients with genuine problems. The online material consists of multiple‐choice questions and case studies, which will help reinforce knowledge. I hope that this book fuels your interest in orthopaedics and helps you deliver compassionate care to your patients. Good luck and enjoy the job!