You have been booked for surgery and have discussed your forthcoming operation and its risks with your physician and your surgeon.
How much did you really understand?
How much do you remember clearly?
Are you satisfied that you know all the risks and those that apply especially to you?
Do you really believe that a verbal discussion is the only reliable way of getting and retaining the information which you consider important in helping you decide?
Do you understand what is meant by the legal term "Informed Consent" and how it is interpreted?
This simple reference book...

You, the surgical patient, are part of a team that includes your family physician, anesthetist, surgeon and members of the surgical nursing staff. Each member of that team has an obligation to make your recovery from major surgery, if and when an operation proves to be necessary, as safe as possible.
The first responsibility is yours and the other members of your surgical team will do their part. That is what this book is all about. In addition, safe and effective new alternatives to major surgery are discussed, as are modern technological approaches, both for diagnoses and for treatment....

When I started this book, the word 'Assassination' in the title referred to the homicide of a powerful military and political individual whose elimination could alter the course of world history.
The word 'Preparations' included the choice of an assassin, the plans for the actual deed, those involved in the planning and those who desired that it take place and succeed.
The word 'Consequences' included an elaborate scheme to silence the assassin, and to cover up those involved in his elimination. The cover-up would initiate a domino sequence with repercussions that continue up to the...