Obstetrics by Ten Teachers PDF

Preface

Obstetrics by Ten Teachers is the oldest and most respected English language textbook on the subject. As editors we fully appreciate the responsibility to ensure its continuing success.

The fi rst edition was published as Midwifery by Ten Teachers in 1917, and was edited under the direction of Comyns Berkley (Obstetric and Gynaecological Surgeon to the Middlesex Hospital). The aims of the book as detailed in the preface to the fi rst edition still pertain today:

This book is frankly written for students preparing for their fi nal examination, and in the hope that it will prove useful to them afterwards, and to others who have passed beyond the stage of examination.

Thus, whilst the 19th edition is written for the medical student, we hope the text retains its usefulness for the trainee obstetrician and general pratitioners. The 19th edition continues the tradition, re-established with the 18th edition, of utilizing the collective efforts of ten teachers of repute. The ten teachers teach in medical schools that vary markedly in the philosophy and structure of their courses. Some adopt a wholly problem-based approach, while others adopt a more traditional ‘subject-based' curriculum. All of the ten teachers have an active involvement in both undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, and all have previously written extensively within their areas of expertise. Some of the contributors, such as Gary Mires, have been at the forefront of innovations in undergraduate teaching, and have been heavily involved in developing the structure of courses and curricula. In contrast, other teachers are at earlier stages in their career: Clare Tower is a clinical lecturer, closely involved in the day-to-day tutoring of students. The extensive and diverse experience of our ten teachers should maximize the relevance of the text to today's medical students.

This 19th edition has been extensively revised and in many places entirely rewritten but throughout the textbook we have endeavoured to continue the previous editors' efforts to incorporate clinically relevant material.

Finally, we echo the previous editors in hoping that this book will enthuse a new generation of obstetricians to make pregnancy and childbirth an even safer and more fulfi lling experience.