Ever since the publication of the first edition in 1997, the Companion to Specialist Surgical Practice series has met the needs of surgeons in higher training and practising consultants by providing contemporary, evidence-based information on the sub-specialist areas relevant to their general surgical practice. All eight volumes are thoroughly edited and supported by evidence-based references to support key recommendations. This new Fourth Edition brings together the relevant state-of-the-art specialist information that the editors and authors consider important for the practising sub-specialist general surgeon.
New to This Edition
This new Fourth Edition is presented in colour throughout, including colour photographs of operative procedures, investigations and clinical signs throughout.
The entire contents have been comprehensively updated with particular reference to the evidence-based content of each chapter.
An expanded group of authors provides an increased international dimension to the content of all volumes.
Available for purchase as a single volume or as part of a set of all eight volumes in an elegant slipcase. Also now available as eBooks as part of a Companion series eLibrary.
Reflects the development of the multidisciplinary team approach in cancer care
Takes account of the improvements in the quality of rectal cancer imaging
Updates the evidence on the efficacy of preoperative radiation therapy for all rectal cancer
Includes a new chapter on colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy
Takes a modern look at less familiar operations such as stapled transanal rectal resection

Table of Contents
Anorectal investigation
. Colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy
. Inherited bowel cancer
. Colonic cancer
. Rectal cancer
. Adjuvant therapy for colorectal cancer
. Anal cancer
. Diverticular disease
. Ulcerative colitis
. Crohn's disease
. Incontinence
. Functional problems and their surgical management
. Functional problems and their medical management
. Anal fistula: evaluation and management
. Minor anorectal conditions
. Sexually transmitted diseases and the anorectum
. Laparoscopic surgery and enhanced recovery programmes in colorectal disease
. Intestinal failure
. Index