Experimental branch retinal vein occlusion.

a place in ophthalmology which can be described as both -ethical and valuable. With this in mind it is desirable that comprehensive contributions to the relevant literature should be seen to build on this late foundation and not to turn the clock -either back or too far forwards with ill-advised haste. In this respect, this book falls short of what is required. It represents a very personal account of Dr Scharchar's views, with much detail about his surgical techniques and the value of his design of implant. His views are unsupported by statistical evidence of his own, and no mention is made of the need to make further study and -assessment of results and complications in a proper scientific manner. Because of the number of astonishing and possibly dangerous assertions such as that ac-chymotrypsin causes glaucoma and delayed wound rupture. or that endothelial dystrophy does not constitute a contraindication to implant surgery, this book should be regarded as unsuitable for postgraduate study, unless read with well,developed critical faculties. The text is not assisted by medical illustrations of poor quality. This book reflects an attitude in favour of implantation -for almost every type of patient with cataract and belittles the disadvantages, attributing most complica-tions to faulty surgical technique rather than to unsatisfactory clinical judgment. Such teaching could easily lead the inexperienced surgeon and his patients into serious trouble. A. D. MCG. STEELE