Book Notices.
An American Text-Book of Gynecology, Medical and Surgical, for the Use of Students and Practitioners. Edited by J. M. Baldy, M. D., assisted by a corps of Nine Contributors. Cloth, 8 vo., pp. 713. 360 illustrations and 37 colored and half tone plates. Philadelphia: W. B. Saunders, 1894. (Sold by Subscriptions only; Price, $6.00).
The magnificent work described above has just been received from the publisher, and inasmuch as it is at once the most modern and most complete of all works of this class prepared exclusively by American authors, it will naturally receive a warm welcome. A somewhat cursory examination shows that it is what it claims to be, namely, a practical work, written by practical men, who are, themselves well qualified by experience, and thoroughly equipped for teaching, all being teachers in high repute in different medical schools. Owing to this special feature, it is entitled to more than usual attention at the hands of American physicians; but this characteristic will give it standing abroad, and doubtless will be the means of advancing the cause of scientific treatment in the class of cases with which it has to deal. Theory and speculation have been set aside, and in their place we find reliable data not alone for the operator, but also for the general practitioner, and we bespeak for the work a favorable reception. The following extract from the prospectus will give in brief the main objects kept in view in its preparation:
In this volume all anatomical descriptions excepting what is essential to a clear understanding of the text have been omitted, illustrations being largely depended upon to elucidate this point. It will be found thoroughly practical in its teachings, and is intended, as its title implies, to be a working text-book for physicians and students. A clear line of treatment has been laid down in every case, and, although no attempt has been made to discuss mooted points, still the most important of these have been noted and explained; and the operations recommended are fully illustrated, so that the reader may have a picture of the procedure described in the text under his eye, and cannot fail to grasp the idea.
It is to be regretted that the authors’ names do not appear in connection with their respective contributions, and this is about the only feature that will detract from the completeness of the work. For example, we should like to know which one of the ten is responsible for the statement found on page 90, to the effect that “All salts of potassium in full doses are cardiac depressants.” This is true only in part, as it is a well-recognized fact that when eliminatives are required, iodides are valuable, in fact, are demanded, and when given in what is known as medicinal doses, potassium iodide is an efficient cardiac stimulant. It is not, however, a cardiac stimulant in the sense that digitalis, strychnine and arsenic are cardiac stimulants, through their influence upon the cardiac mechanism; but rather, because potassium iodide increases protoplasmic activity, promoting the discharge of waste products, and thus lessens materially the work devolving upon the heart muscle itself. Statements of this character should always be made with caution, since they are too sweeping, and calculated to mislead those unfamiliar with the true physiological action of drugs. The book is well printed, handsomely illustrated, and reflects credit alike upon the authors and publisher.
Syllabus of Lectures on the Practice of Surgery. Arranged in conformity with the American Text-book of Surgery. By N. Senn, M. D., Ph. D., L. L. D. Cloth, 12mo., pp. 221. Philadelphia. W. B. Saunders. 1894. (Price, $2.00.)
Like all Prof. Senn’s work, this is an excellent compilation, and no doubt will be highly appreciated by teachers in this department, although it will prove most acceptable to the general practitioner who desires to refresh his memory from time to time in regard to surgical affections. By reference to the list of contents, arranged alphabetically, any subject can readily be located, and all the more important points gained in the course of a few minutes. Those who do not possess the original work will be prompted to purchase it when they have an opportunity of examining this convenient arrangement.
Funny Bone.—A Book of Mirth, for Doctors, Druggists, Dentists, Medical Students and Others. Containing Funny Sayings, Jokes, Good Stories, Dialogues, Conundrums, Ludicrous Things, Ditties, etc., from a great many sources, with Over 150 New and Original Comic Illustrations by Dr. L. Crusius, all of which pertain to the Medical and Pharmaceutical Professions. The Funny Bone Publishing Co., 1421 Market St., St. Louis, Mo. (Price, 50 cents).
Read the preceding title and description carefully: It tells all about the nature of the book. Then take our word for it that the book is really very funny; the illustrations are unique, odd, totally unlike anything ever supplied by a comic artist, wholly original; and if you want something odd and unique, to read and to show to professional and lay friends as a curiosity, send 50 cents to the publishers and get a copy by return mail. You’ll get more than 50 cents’ worth of fun out of the book.
The Antikamnia Visiting List is a neat and practical account book, of convenient size, and fitted into a durable leather cover. We have received one of these lists from the Antikamnia Chemical Co., St. Louis, Mo., and have no doubt that any physician who will write to the firm can obtain the same—and make good use of it.