This book series is aimed not only at the surgical trainee preparing for the American Surgical Boards, but will also be equally attractive for those preparing for the Royal Colleges' examination in the UK, and other higher examinations elsewhere. It will be most valuable reading before the oral examinations, providing the candidate with important insights and perspective and broadening his scope of knowledge with a "user friendly" and concise text. It will furthermore appeal to the practicing surgeon who has only a limited amount of time to read. Residents in training and the "thinking" medical student will also find this book useful and fun to read because it will convey a large body of knowledge in a highly concentrated fashion. In addition, the proposed book will serve as an ideal source to prepare for teaching rounds or seminars on "controversies".