Philosophy of Neurological Surgery

Philosophy of Neurological Surgery

Author: Issam A. Awad

Publisher: Thieme

Published: 1995

Total Pages: 274

ISBN-13: 9781879284326

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For the first time, leading scholars in the field of neurosurgery have been assembled to discuss the heritage, current philosophical foundations and future currents of thought influencing the specialty. Philosophy of Neurological Surgery also includes fascinating, useful and original analysis of neurosurgery as an art, a science and a discipline of integral benefit to humanity. Included in Philosophy of Neurological Surgery: The founding philosophy of neurosurgery Modern neurosurgical philosophy Patient-centered neurosurgery Mind, consciousness and the neurosurgeon The philosophy of dying and death Neurological surgery and clinical science The neurosurgeon and health care policy (Distributed by Thieme for the American Association of Neurological Surgeons)


Book Synopsis Philosophy of Neurological Surgery by : Issam A. Awad

Download or read book Philosophy of Neurological Surgery written by Issam A. Awad and published by Thieme. This book was released on 1995 with total page 274 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: For the first time, leading scholars in the field of neurosurgery have been assembled to discuss the heritage, current philosophical foundations and future currents of thought influencing the specialty. Philosophy of Neurological Surgery also includes fascinating, useful and original analysis of neurosurgery as an art, a science and a discipline of integral benefit to humanity. Included in Philosophy of Neurological Surgery: The founding philosophy of neurosurgery Modern neurosurgical philosophy Patient-centered neurosurgery Mind, consciousness and the neurosurgeon The philosophy of dying and death Neurological surgery and clinical science The neurosurgeon and health care policy (Distributed by Thieme for the American Association of Neurological Surgeons)


Oxford Textbook of Neurological Surgery

Oxford Textbook of Neurological Surgery

Author: Ramez Kirollos

Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA

Published: 2019-09-05

Total Pages: 1177

ISBN-13: 0198746709

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Neurosurgery is a rapidly developing and technically demanding branch of surgery that requires a detailed knowledge of the basic neuro-sciences and a thorough clinical approach. The Oxford Textbook of Neurological Surgery is an up-to-date, objective and readable text that covers the full scope of neurosurgical practice. It is part of the Oxford Textbooks in Surgery series, edited by Professor Sir Peter Morris. The book is split into 20 overarching sections (Principles of Neurosurgery, Neuro-oncology of Intrinsic Tumours; Extra-axial Tumours and Skull Lesions; Cerebro-Pontine Angle Tumours; Sellar and Supra-Sellar Tumours; Posterior Fossa Tumours; Pineal tumours; Uncommon Tumours and Tumour Syndromes; Neurotrauma and Intensive Care; Vascular Neurosurgery; Principles of Spinal Surgery; Spinal Pathology; Spinal Trauma; Peripheral Nerve Surgery; Functional Neurosurgery; Epilepsy; Paediatric Neurosurgery; Neurosurgery for Cerebrospinal Fluid Disorders and Neurosurgical Infection). Each section takes a dual approach with, 'Generic Surgical Management' chapters that focus on specific clinical problems facing the neurosurgeon (e.g. sellar/supra-sellar tumour, Intradural Spina Tumours etc.) and 'Pathology-Specific' chapters (e.g. Glioma, Meningeal Tumours, Scoliosis and Spinal Deformity, Aneurysm etc.). Where appropriate, this division provides the reader with easily accessible information for both clinical problems which present in a regional fashion and specific pathologies. The generic chapters cover aspects such as operative approaches, neuroanatomy and nuances. Specifically each chapter in the book incorporates several strands. Firstly the fundamental neuroscience (anatomy, pathology, genetics etc.) that underlies the clinical practice. Secondly, a review of the requisite clinical investigations (e.g. angiography, electrodiagnostics, radiology). Thirdly, a thorough evidence based review of clinical practice. Following this a consideration of the key debates and controversies in the field with 'pro-' and 'con-' sections (e.g. minimally invasive spine surgery, microsurgical treatment of aneurysms) is provided. A summary of the key papers and clinical scales relevant to neurosurgery form the concluding part. The book is a 'one-stop' text for trainees and consultants in neurosurgery, residents, those preparing for sub-specialty exams and other professionals allied to surgery who need to gain an understanding of the field. It acts as both a point of reference to provide a focussed refresher for the experienced neurosurgeon as well as a trusted training resource.


Book Synopsis Oxford Textbook of Neurological Surgery by : Ramez Kirollos

Download or read book Oxford Textbook of Neurological Surgery written by Ramez Kirollos and published by Oxford University Press, USA. This book was released on 2019-09-05 with total page 1177 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Neurosurgery is a rapidly developing and technically demanding branch of surgery that requires a detailed knowledge of the basic neuro-sciences and a thorough clinical approach. The Oxford Textbook of Neurological Surgery is an up-to-date, objective and readable text that covers the full scope of neurosurgical practice. It is part of the Oxford Textbooks in Surgery series, edited by Professor Sir Peter Morris. The book is split into 20 overarching sections (Principles of Neurosurgery, Neuro-oncology of Intrinsic Tumours; Extra-axial Tumours and Skull Lesions; Cerebro-Pontine Angle Tumours; Sellar and Supra-Sellar Tumours; Posterior Fossa Tumours; Pineal tumours; Uncommon Tumours and Tumour Syndromes; Neurotrauma and Intensive Care; Vascular Neurosurgery; Principles of Spinal Surgery; Spinal Pathology; Spinal Trauma; Peripheral Nerve Surgery; Functional Neurosurgery; Epilepsy; Paediatric Neurosurgery; Neurosurgery for Cerebrospinal Fluid Disorders and Neurosurgical Infection). Each section takes a dual approach with, 'Generic Surgical Management' chapters that focus on specific clinical problems facing the neurosurgeon (e.g. sellar/supra-sellar tumour, Intradural Spina Tumours etc.) and 'Pathology-Specific' chapters (e.g. Glioma, Meningeal Tumours, Scoliosis and Spinal Deformity, Aneurysm etc.). Where appropriate, this division provides the reader with easily accessible information for both clinical problems which present in a regional fashion and specific pathologies. The generic chapters cover aspects such as operative approaches, neuroanatomy and nuances. Specifically each chapter in the book incorporates several strands. Firstly the fundamental neuroscience (anatomy, pathology, genetics etc.) that underlies the clinical practice. Secondly, a review of the requisite clinical investigations (e.g. angiography, electrodiagnostics, radiology). Thirdly, a thorough evidence based review of clinical practice. Following this a consideration of the key debates and controversies in the field with 'pro-' and 'con-' sections (e.g. minimally invasive spine surgery, microsurgical treatment of aneurysms) is provided. A summary of the key papers and clinical scales relevant to neurosurgery form the concluding part. The book is a 'one-stop' text for trainees and consultants in neurosurgery, residents, those preparing for sub-specialty exams and other professionals allied to surgery who need to gain an understanding of the field. It acts as both a point of reference to provide a focussed refresher for the experienced neurosurgeon as well as a trusted training resource.


Congress of Neurological Surgeons Essential Papers in Neurosurgery

Congress of Neurological Surgeons Essential Papers in Neurosurgery

Author: Najib E. El Tecle

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Published: 2020-12-16

Total Pages: 273

ISBN-13: 0197534368

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The Congress of Neurological Surgeons Essential Papers in Neurosurgery brings to the neurosurgical community a unique collection of critically appraised neurosurgical papers shedding light on some of the most impactful studies in the history of the field. Separating the signal from the noise, this text offers papers that have shaped the practice of neurosurgery, selected through a rigorous process, and commented on by editorialists to reconcile conflicting points and summarize the take-home message of each study. Each paper is reviewed by a panel of two experts who provide editorials evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the paper as well as the impact it had on the editorialist's personal practice of neurosurgery. This book is equally suited for neurosurgery residents, practicing neurosurgeons, and anyone interested in evidence-based clinical neuroscience. The body of literature covered in this book has in many ways defined the gold standards of neurosurgical practice and is a must-know for every student of neurosurgery.


Book Synopsis Congress of Neurological Surgeons Essential Papers in Neurosurgery by : Najib E. El Tecle

Download or read book Congress of Neurological Surgeons Essential Papers in Neurosurgery written by Najib E. El Tecle and published by Oxford University Press. This book was released on 2020-12-16 with total page 273 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The Congress of Neurological Surgeons Essential Papers in Neurosurgery brings to the neurosurgical community a unique collection of critically appraised neurosurgical papers shedding light on some of the most impactful studies in the history of the field. Separating the signal from the noise, this text offers papers that have shaped the practice of neurosurgery, selected through a rigorous process, and commented on by editorialists to reconcile conflicting points and summarize the take-home message of each study. Each paper is reviewed by a panel of two experts who provide editorials evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the paper as well as the impact it had on the editorialist's personal practice of neurosurgery. This book is equally suited for neurosurgery residents, practicing neurosurgeons, and anyone interested in evidence-based clinical neuroscience. The body of literature covered in this book has in many ways defined the gold standards of neurosurgical practice and is a must-know for every student of neurosurgery.


A History of Neurological Surgery

A History of Neurological Surgery

Author: Arthur Earl Walker

Publisher:

Published: 2013-06

Total Pages: 596

ISBN-13: 9781258754884

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Additional Editor Is W. Eugene Stern. Contributors Include William J. Atkinson, Kenneth M. Browne, John V. Crawford And Many Others.


Book Synopsis A History of Neurological Surgery by : Arthur Earl Walker

Download or read book A History of Neurological Surgery written by Arthur Earl Walker and published by . This book was released on 2013-06 with total page 596 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Additional Editor Is W. Eugene Stern. Contributors Include William J. Atkinson, Kenneth M. Browne, John V. Crawford And Many Others.


Neurosurgery and Medical Ethics

Neurosurgery and Medical Ethics

Author: H. August van Alphen

Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

Published: 2012-12-06

Total Pages: 197

ISBN-13: 3709163870

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This supplement of Acta Neurochirurgica contains the proceedings of the Ninth Convention of the Academia Eurasiana Neurochirurgica held in Chateau St. Gerlach, Houthem, The Netherlands, 29 July - 1 August 1998. During this convention a three-day symposium on Neurosurgery and Medical Ethics was held. In this time of tremendous technical advancement in medicine in general and neurosurgery in particular, we are liable to lose sight of the sick patient as a human being, and the odds are that he will be the object rather than the subject of our action in the near future. It is a purpose and a task of the Academia Eurasiana Neurochirurgica to recognize this thread and to pay attention to tradition, morality and ethics in neurological surgery. The theme of this convention and the subject of the symposium met this purpose as no other. In the scientific sessions during the first day, the moral backgrounds of medical ethics in the most important cultures and religions in east and west were elucidated by invited experts in this field. A mutual respectful understanding of each other's conception of and belief in ethical principles is a growing necessity in our multicultural societies in both continents. On the second day, the ethical aspects of different fields of neurological surgery were discussed by members of the Academia. In this context, also the internationally much-discussed and much-criticized regulations on euthanasia in The Netherlands were explained.


Book Synopsis Neurosurgery and Medical Ethics by : H. August van Alphen

Download or read book Neurosurgery and Medical Ethics written by H. August van Alphen and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2012-12-06 with total page 197 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This supplement of Acta Neurochirurgica contains the proceedings of the Ninth Convention of the Academia Eurasiana Neurochirurgica held in Chateau St. Gerlach, Houthem, The Netherlands, 29 July - 1 August 1998. During this convention a three-day symposium on Neurosurgery and Medical Ethics was held. In this time of tremendous technical advancement in medicine in general and neurosurgery in particular, we are liable to lose sight of the sick patient as a human being, and the odds are that he will be the object rather than the subject of our action in the near future. It is a purpose and a task of the Academia Eurasiana Neurochirurgica to recognize this thread and to pay attention to tradition, morality and ethics in neurological surgery. The theme of this convention and the subject of the symposium met this purpose as no other. In the scientific sessions during the first day, the moral backgrounds of medical ethics in the most important cultures and religions in east and west were elucidated by invited experts in this field. A mutual respectful understanding of each other's conception of and belief in ethical principles is a growing necessity in our multicultural societies in both continents. On the second day, the ethical aspects of different fields of neurological surgery were discussed by members of the Academia. In this context, also the internationally much-discussed and much-criticized regulations on euthanasia in The Netherlands were explained.


Neurosurgical Ethics in Practice: Value-based Medicine

Neurosurgical Ethics in Practice: Value-based Medicine

Author: Ahmed Ammar

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2014-06-26

Total Pages: 284

ISBN-13: 3642549802

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Good neurosurgical practice is based not only on evidence, skills, and modern equipment, but also on good values. This book is the first to discuss specifically the ethical issues that arise during the daily practice of neurosurgery. It is divided into three parts addressing patients’ rights, ethical issues relating to the working environment, and wider societal aspects such as dealings of neurosurgeons with the legal system, the media, and companies. The authors are well-established neurosurgeons who present the ethical problems that they have encountered during their careers and explain what they have learned in confronting these problems. In all, more than 50 neurosurgical cases drawn from real life are reported and discussed from an ethical point of view. This book will be especially informative for young neurosurgeons and will provide all who work in this very special field with a road map on how to avoid violations of medical ethics in neurosurgical practice.


Book Synopsis Neurosurgical Ethics in Practice: Value-based Medicine by : Ahmed Ammar

Download or read book Neurosurgical Ethics in Practice: Value-based Medicine written by Ahmed Ammar and published by Springer. This book was released on 2014-06-26 with total page 284 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Good neurosurgical practice is based not only on evidence, skills, and modern equipment, but also on good values. This book is the first to discuss specifically the ethical issues that arise during the daily practice of neurosurgery. It is divided into three parts addressing patients’ rights, ethical issues relating to the working environment, and wider societal aspects such as dealings of neurosurgeons with the legal system, the media, and companies. The authors are well-established neurosurgeons who present the ethical problems that they have encountered during their careers and explain what they have learned in confronting these problems. In all, more than 50 neurosurgical cases drawn from real life are reported and discussed from an ethical point of view. This book will be especially informative for young neurosurgeons and will provide all who work in this very special field with a road map on how to avoid violations of medical ethics in neurosurgical practice.


Principles and Practice of Keyhole Brain Surgery

Principles and Practice of Keyhole Brain Surgery

Author: Charles Teo

Publisher: Thieme

Published: 2015-04-29

Total Pages: 274

ISBN-13: 3131758619

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A step-by-step guide to modern techniques of keyhole brain surgery Developed 20 years ago by leading innovators in the field, the keyhole concept of brain surgery has become an integral part of the practice of neurosurgery. This timely and comprehensive book covers the thinking, philosophy, and techniques of modern keyhole brain surgery, including a realistic assessment of its benefits and limitations. Written by expert practitioners and highlighted by vivid surgical illustrations and procedural videos, Principles and Practice of Keyhole Brain Surgery functions as an experienced mentor working side by side with neurosurgeons as they master the techniques. Special Features: Introduces the basic principles of the keyhole approach, including the practical, technical, and logistical aspects of planning procedures and operating through small openings Beautifully illustrated with nearly 900 endoscopic images, diagrams, surgical drawings, and operative photographs, many showing step-by-step procedures Details the pivotal role of the endoscope in keyhole brain surgery and its ability to provide multiple angles of visualization, including a useful catalog of clinical situations where the endoscope has proven most effective Demonstrates contemporary keyhole approaches (e.g. the eyebrow/sub-frontal approach) in procedures for supratentorial intra-axial brain tumors, tumors of the cribriform plate and orbit, parasellar masses, craniopharyngiomas, tumors of the middle fossa and cavernous sinus and many other conditions in the cranial base Offers more than 100 procedural videos on the Thieme's MediaCenter, narrated by the authors and aligned to chapters in the book for an unparalleled learning resource Providing all the information necessary to achieve surgical goals through well placed, smaller openings—with the added benefits of shorter procedures, fewer wound complications and better patient outcomes—Principles and Practice of Keyhole Brain Surgery is essential for every neurosurgeon in practice today.


Book Synopsis Principles and Practice of Keyhole Brain Surgery by : Charles Teo

Download or read book Principles and Practice of Keyhole Brain Surgery written by Charles Teo and published by Thieme. This book was released on 2015-04-29 with total page 274 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A step-by-step guide to modern techniques of keyhole brain surgery Developed 20 years ago by leading innovators in the field, the keyhole concept of brain surgery has become an integral part of the practice of neurosurgery. This timely and comprehensive book covers the thinking, philosophy, and techniques of modern keyhole brain surgery, including a realistic assessment of its benefits and limitations. Written by expert practitioners and highlighted by vivid surgical illustrations and procedural videos, Principles and Practice of Keyhole Brain Surgery functions as an experienced mentor working side by side with neurosurgeons as they master the techniques. Special Features: Introduces the basic principles of the keyhole approach, including the practical, technical, and logistical aspects of planning procedures and operating through small openings Beautifully illustrated with nearly 900 endoscopic images, diagrams, surgical drawings, and operative photographs, many showing step-by-step procedures Details the pivotal role of the endoscope in keyhole brain surgery and its ability to provide multiple angles of visualization, including a useful catalog of clinical situations where the endoscope has proven most effective Demonstrates contemporary keyhole approaches (e.g. the eyebrow/sub-frontal approach) in procedures for supratentorial intra-axial brain tumors, tumors of the cribriform plate and orbit, parasellar masses, craniopharyngiomas, tumors of the middle fossa and cavernous sinus and many other conditions in the cranial base Offers more than 100 procedural videos on the Thieme's MediaCenter, narrated by the authors and aligned to chapters in the book for an unparalleled learning resource Providing all the information necessary to achieve surgical goals through well placed, smaller openings—with the added benefits of shorter procedures, fewer wound complications and better patient outcomes—Principles and Practice of Keyhole Brain Surgery is essential for every neurosurgeon in practice today.


Clinical Philosophy of Neurosurgery

Clinical Philosophy of Neurosurgery

Author: Leonid Likhterman

Publisher:

Published: 2018

Total Pages: 230

ISBN-13: 9788899968076

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Book Synopsis Clinical Philosophy of Neurosurgery by : Leonid Likhterman

Download or read book Clinical Philosophy of Neurosurgery written by Leonid Likhterman and published by . This book was released on 2018 with total page 230 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:


Intensive Neurosurgery Board Review

Intensive Neurosurgery Board Review

Author: Thomas G. Psarros

Publisher: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

Published: 2006

Total Pages: 340

ISBN-13: 9781405104791

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"An essential review for residents across neurological disciplines, the chapters are organized into groups of questions covering neurobiology, neuroanatomy, clinical neurology, neuropathology, neuroradiology, neurosurgery, and critical care. Written and edited by neurosurgery residents who have passed the boards, the book works as an effective stand-alone review book or used in conjunction with The Definitive Neurological Surgery Board Review. Featuring hundreds of high-quality figures as well as high-yield tables, this essential review book concludes with a 300-question multidisciplinary self-assessment examination."--BOOK JACKET.


Book Synopsis Intensive Neurosurgery Board Review by : Thomas G. Psarros

Download or read book Intensive Neurosurgery Board Review written by Thomas G. Psarros and published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. This book was released on 2006 with total page 340 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: "An essential review for residents across neurological disciplines, the chapters are organized into groups of questions covering neurobiology, neuroanatomy, clinical neurology, neuropathology, neuroradiology, neurosurgery, and critical care. Written and edited by neurosurgery residents who have passed the boards, the book works as an effective stand-alone review book or used in conjunction with The Definitive Neurological Surgery Board Review. Featuring hundreds of high-quality figures as well as high-yield tables, this essential review book concludes with a 300-question multidisciplinary self-assessment examination."--BOOK JACKET.


Memoirs of a Neurosurgeon

Memoirs of a Neurosurgeon

Author: James D. Geissinger

Publisher:

Published: 2012-02

Total Pages: 404

ISBN-13: 9780984741809

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In reflecting upon my life as a neurosurgeon, perhaps the most salient feature is that period of history involved. Trained by men who studied under Harvey Cushing, considered the father of neurological surgery, we, as early third-generation neurosurgeons, were held to those rigid standards of academic achievement and physical endurance typical of that time. The reader first identifies with the young child who dreams of becoming a doctor, and then sets out on that long path. He then re-lives the experiences of the student of medicine, and later the rigorous demands placed upon the surgeon-in-training. During the later descriptions of the private practice of brain and spinal surgery, the book transitions into an educational experience. It presents to the reader a multitude of neurological disorders requiring surgical treatment, the relevant surgical anatomy and the operative techniques involved. Often interjected are the intangibles of surgical judgment and philosophy when confronting those in pain or critically ill. Of equal importance were the major scientific advancements which occurred during that period of medical history. No longer did we have to bore a hole in the skull, or inject noxious materials into the head or spinal canal to verify a diagnosis. Rather, we had been privileged to enjoy the development of such remarkable machines as the ultrasound, CAT, and MRI. Descriptions of these devices, among others, and their impact on medical practice should prove interesting to the inquisitive reader. After 21 years in practice, and probably at the height of my career as a surgeon, I contracted hepatitis B subsequent to an accidental needle puncture in the operating room. Forced to lay down the scalpel, I turned to my second childhood dream, cattle ranching, as an alternative vocation. This then becomes a secondary focus of the book. A medical colleague, after learning of my book, expressed an interest in learning the common denominator driving a man to both neurosurgery and ranching. One can summarize with the word, “counterpoise.” I had always strived to achieve a balance between the in-hospital, academic, precision-oriented work of the neurosurgeon and the outdoor, physically-demanding life of a rancher― consummating the total American dream. Analogous to surgery I have always enjoyed using my hands in the shop. Throughout the book sections have been devoted to various aspects of woodworking, and an effort not only to share my enthusiasm but also to expose underlying problems and pitfalls; challenges I have encountered in striving to become an artisan of fine furniture. The practice of medicine has undergone significant change during my lifetime. Not only have I witnessed a burgeoning, unsustainable increase in the cost of healthcare, but also major changes in the way in which medicine is being practiced in the new millennium. Having been a proud product of the “Lucky Few” generation, born between the years 1929 and 1945, I am rightfully able to compare today's practice of medicine with those of the latter half of the 20th century.


Book Synopsis Memoirs of a Neurosurgeon by : James D. Geissinger

Download or read book Memoirs of a Neurosurgeon written by James D. Geissinger and published by . This book was released on 2012-02 with total page 404 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: In reflecting upon my life as a neurosurgeon, perhaps the most salient feature is that period of history involved. Trained by men who studied under Harvey Cushing, considered the father of neurological surgery, we, as early third-generation neurosurgeons, were held to those rigid standards of academic achievement and physical endurance typical of that time. The reader first identifies with the young child who dreams of becoming a doctor, and then sets out on that long path. He then re-lives the experiences of the student of medicine, and later the rigorous demands placed upon the surgeon-in-training. During the later descriptions of the private practice of brain and spinal surgery, the book transitions into an educational experience. It presents to the reader a multitude of neurological disorders requiring surgical treatment, the relevant surgical anatomy and the operative techniques involved. Often interjected are the intangibles of surgical judgment and philosophy when confronting those in pain or critically ill. Of equal importance were the major scientific advancements which occurred during that period of medical history. No longer did we have to bore a hole in the skull, or inject noxious materials into the head or spinal canal to verify a diagnosis. Rather, we had been privileged to enjoy the development of such remarkable machines as the ultrasound, CAT, and MRI. Descriptions of these devices, among others, and their impact on medical practice should prove interesting to the inquisitive reader. After 21 years in practice, and probably at the height of my career as a surgeon, I contracted hepatitis B subsequent to an accidental needle puncture in the operating room. Forced to lay down the scalpel, I turned to my second childhood dream, cattle ranching, as an alternative vocation. This then becomes a secondary focus of the book. A medical colleague, after learning of my book, expressed an interest in learning the common denominator driving a man to both neurosurgery and ranching. One can summarize with the word, “counterpoise.” I had always strived to achieve a balance between the in-hospital, academic, precision-oriented work of the neurosurgeon and the outdoor, physically-demanding life of a rancher― consummating the total American dream. Analogous to surgery I have always enjoyed using my hands in the shop. Throughout the book sections have been devoted to various aspects of woodworking, and an effort not only to share my enthusiasm but also to expose underlying problems and pitfalls; challenges I have encountered in striving to become an artisan of fine furniture. The practice of medicine has undergone significant change during my lifetime. Not only have I witnessed a burgeoning, unsustainable increase in the cost of healthcare, but also major changes in the way in which medicine is being practiced in the new millennium. Having been a proud product of the “Lucky Few” generation, born between the years 1929 and 1945, I am rightfully able to compare today's practice of medicine with those of the latter half of the 20th century.