PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF GERIATRIC SURGERY presents the fundamentals of surgical care for the fastest growing segment of the US population. This book provides a vital integration of operative strategies with the physiological changes of aging. Contributors come from among today's leaders in general surgery. Organized by organ system, the text covers the endocrine system, otolaryngology, respiratory system, cardiovascular system, GI system, hepatobiliary system, urogenital system, soft tissue and musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and transplantation. The book comprehensively addresses the challenges faced by surgeons caring for the older patient, including management of concomitant medical disease; proper cardiac, renal and respiratory systems assessment; risk of anesthesia; outcomes measurement; pre- and postoperative considerations; critical care issues; the use of minimally invasive techniques; palliative care; the independent versus nursing home patient; and ethical issues. Senior surgeons provide invited commentaries throughout the text on the refinement and evolution of surgical procedures in the elderly. Top contributors and more than 380 illustrations make this book the definitive reference on the art and science of surgical treatment in the elderly-- a must have for every surgeon and surgeon-in-training.