This is an excellent volume. The color plates depicting polyps, carcinomas, the lesions characteristic of ulcerative colitis, and other frequently seen lesions (as well as a few rare ones) are superb. This monograph is not a book on proctology or proctologic surgery per se, and apparently it is not intended to replace such a book in the physician's library. The style is rather that of a diagnostic study, dealing with the methods of performing proctologic examinations and the recognition of lesions most frequently encountered. This idea has been carried out clearly, concisely, and authoritatively.
The chapter on the technique of proctoscopy is well done. Step by step the reader is instructed in indications, preparation of the patient, positions, and the actual conduct of anoscopy and proctosigmoidscopy. The accompanying illustrations should clear up many misunderstandings held by beginners in these procedures. The technique of transrectal needle biopsy as it applies specifically