The archetype of a surgeon is one who feels communication is "touchy feely" or merely grunts and throws things, when, in fact, surgery is reliant on the highest standards of communication. Communication forms a central part of clinical work for surgeons. However, it has only been in the past several years that the uniqueness and complexity of this aspect of surgeon competence has gained currency in research and education. This volume brings together new research from key international academics, who contribute a range of linguistic, sociological, and professional views on communication in...