When "WC-D" first was published in 1960, it filled a worldwide need for a truly general textbook dealing with the scientific basis for the practice of anesthesiology. That the text met that intent is attested by numerous translations, as well as by new editions appearing every sixth year. The fourth edition continues this tradition of excellence, providing major revisions and new additions.
The 46 chapters, covering most facets of present-day anesthesia practice (outpatient anesthesia being one exception), are unsigned, creating the unwitting impression that this is a two-author text, unless one troubles to examine the preface and table of contents. There one learns that Dr Churchill-Davidson has become sole editor, with 18 associate and two assistant editors responsible for all but one chapter.
The editor's tight control over presentation is evident throughout and is in notable contrast to the varying styles and frequent overlaps encountered in so many other multiauthored