Early Diagnosis of the Acute Abdomen

A standard textbook in gastroenterology, which has been revised and updated to combine the traditional principles of prompt, accurate diagnosis with contemporary observations and research. Emphasis is placed throughout the text on clinical diagnosis by direct examination.

---

Unparalleled in demonstrating the art of clinical diagnosis, this classic text has been used by several generations of medical students and house staff since its original publication seventy years ago. Thoroughly revised by one of America's most distinguished gastrointestinal surgeons, it combines the enduring principles of prompt, accurate diagnosis of the acute abdomen with many fresh observations culled from Silen's own experience. Retained from Cope's original work are his emphasis on clinical diagnosis by direct examination, his highly readable style of writing, and the book's overall structure. New to this edition is a concise chapter on the acute abdomen in AIDS. In recent years there has been a misdirected emphasis on the use of invasive and non-invasive tests rather than clinical evaluation of individuals with acute abdominal pain. These tests are no substitute for an adequate history and physical examination as well as in-depth knowledge of the natural history of disease. More effectively than any other volume, this book redresses that balance, helping students and clinicians gain facility in clinical diagnosis and management of acute abdominal pain.