Christopher D. Harner, Kelly G. Vince, and Freddie H.
Fu, editors. Patrick E. Greis, associate editor. Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams and Wilkins; 2001. 318 pages. $149.00.
It gives me great pleasure to write a review of this book, which
represents the culmination of the editors’ vast experience
in knee surgery. This new volume expands on and updates the editors’ acclaimed 1994
two-volume publication, Knee Surgery, and
it will be a valuable reference for the orthopaedic surgeon with
a particular interest in knee surgery.
With outstanding contributions by world leaders in the field,
this authoritative text comprises all aspects of adult knee surgery.
It is well illustrated with multiple line drawings, photographs,
and color images. Virtually every surgical technique currently used
in the United States is covered in detail. A thorough review of
meniscal repair and transplantation is presented in the first two
sections, followed by descriptions of microfracture and autologous chondrocyte
transplantation for the treatment of full-thickness chondral defects.
Reconstruction of the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments
as well as multiple-ligament reconstruction are discussed in
a clear, stepwise fashion. The treatment of atraumatic
disorders of the patellofemoral joint is nicely summarized,
as is osteotomy about the knee. The final third of the book describes
the techniques and rationale for posterior-cruciate-retaining, posterior-cruciate-substituting,
and meniscal-bearing total knee arthroplasty. The management of
flexion and angular deformities is covered thoroughly, as are the
complications of supracondylar fracture, extensor mechanism compromise,
and infection.
This text is appropriate for medical students, residents, fellows,
and attending physicians. Its greatest asset is that it covers the
vast majority of surgical procedures that are commonly performed.
The contributors provide step-by-step descriptions of their techniques,
postoperative protocols, and results. Both the editors and the contributors
are to be complimented for this practical and useful addition to the
orthopaedic literature.