Surgery in London and the Royal College of Surgeons of England: Opportunities and Pitfalls 

Introducing “Opportunities and Pitfalls” by John S Bolwell – a mini-monograph that provides a concise yet comprehensive account of the evolution of surgical training and practice in London, with a particular emphasis on the Royal College of Surgeons of England and its predecessors.

The book covers the significant changes in medical education post-World War II, which saw significant advances in medical science, engineering, and surgical techniques, dramatically expanding the spectrum of diseases amenable to surgical treatment. The Todd Report in 1968 and the Flowers Report in 1980 recommended major changes to undergraduate and postgraduate medical education, which London had to consider separately due to its disproportionate number of teaching hospitals, medical schools, specialist hospitals, and research institutes.

The mini-monograph also provides essential historical context with an overview of more than 700 years of recorded surgical history, including details of commissioned reports and some of the most consequential post-war innovations. The adversarial relationship of diplomates with the Royal College of Surgeons of England and its predecessors is also explored.

Moreover, the book delves into the current controversies in operative and postoperative care organization, especially for elderly patients and those with comorbidities. It also discusses the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan of the Royal College of Surgeons of England in response to the Diversity and Inclusion Review that found the college and the profession to be systemically “sexist, racist, and homophobic.”

What sets “Opportunities and Pitfalls” apart is its conciseness and comprehensiveness, making the book an excellent choice for anyone interested in the evolution of surgical practice and education in London, particularly medical students, surgeons, and historians.

John S Bolwell, the author, is uniquely qualified to write this mini-monograph. He has completed residencies in general surgery and thoracic surgery and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of England. In his long career, he has been a consultant to various medical institutions, including Barts and the London NHS Trust. Bolwell has written numerous articles, papers, and book chapters on thoracic surgery, as well as surgical education and training.

In conclusion, “Opportunities and Pitfalls” is a compelling read that provides a concise account of surgical training and practice in London, covering the history, changes, controversies, and current issues in the field. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of medicine, surgical practice, or surgical education. It is available as an eBook with 114 pages and can be ordered on Amazon or other online bookstores. Order your copy today and deepen your knowledge of surgical training and practice.

Product Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Grosvenor House Publishing Limited (November 3, 2022)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• ‏ : ‎ 114 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1803811587
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1803811581