Scoliosis Surgery. The Definitive Patient's Reference by David K. Wolpert. (2003). Austin, TX: Swordfish Communications, LLC. ISBN: 0-9741955-0-2.

Mr. Wolpert has written an excellent guide to spinal surgery from the perspective of a patient who has undergone spinal surgery for scoliosis. Although not a healthcare professional, Mr. Wolpert has done a nice job recording many of the things that patients think about before, during, and after the surgical experience. This book explains one person's experience in one setting but offers sound information to share with others who are making the decision to proceed with spinal surgery.

Under the subtitle of Common Complications During Surgery, Mr. Wolpert discusses things such as pneumothorax, infections, and pneumonia. Also listed are neurologic complications, which I would not necessarily put under the title Common Complications; however, the author clearly states the low incidence of this particular complication.

This book consists of seven chapters, two appendices, and a glossary of terms. The first chapter, entitled Scoliosis Demystified, answers many of the questions such as cause, classification, and how to measure scoliosis curves. The remaining six chapters discuss the things a patient needs to consider while making plans for surgery. The appendices offer additional information in an easy-to-read list format. One area that could be augmented is the Internet Resource list. In addition to the one Internet resource the author lists, others that would be helpful for patients and families are http://www.srs.org and http://www.spineuniverse.com.

The glossary may be the most valuable piece of this book because it lists all of the common terms that are frequently used in the treatment of scoliosis and are often spoken quickly in surgical discussions. Reviewing this list before the visit to the spine surgeon would be helpful.

I recommend this book as a resource for patients and healthcare providers who are suggesting information to those patients and families making the difficult decision to proceed with spinal surgery for scoliosis. All must understand that variations may occur depending on surgeon preference and hospital location. A thorough discussion by the treating surgeon continues to be the cornerstone for surgical care.

Mary F. Rodts MS, MSA, CNP, ONC, FAAN