This text is organized by organ system and the illustrations highlight surgical pearls borne of experience and polished by the study of pertinent references. Hand-drawn and illustrated figures show exact anatomical relationships as we see them in-vivo. A question/answer format augments the images to allow the reader to actively reflect on the topic and to appraise his/her knowledge in that area. The discussion sections strive to explain not only what the correct answer is, but also why the distractors are wrong, in order to motivate discussion and self-reflection.

Cognitive Pearls in General Surgery details the explicit thought processes and associations that underlie the understanding of the topics at hand, with the intent of enhancing the fun and enjoyment that only an informed and well-grounded practice of surgery can provide.

Chapter 1

The Neck

 Chapter 2

Thoracic Wall and Pleura

 Chapter 3

Breast

 Chapter 4

Larynx and Respiratory System

 Chapter 5

Mediastinum, Heart and Great Vessels in the Thorax

Chapter 6

Diaphragm

Chapter 7

Abdominal Pain

Chapter 8

Abdominal Wall and Hernias

Chapter 9

Peritoneum, Omentum and Internal Hernias

Chapter 10

Retroperitoneum and Great Vessels in the Abdomen

 Chapter 11

Pharynx and Esophagus

 Chapter 12

Stomach

 Chapter 13

Small Bowel

 Chapter 14

Appendix

 Chapter 15

Large Intestine and Anorectum

Chapter 16

Liver

 Chapter 17

Extrahepatic Biliary Tract and Gallbladder

 Chapter 18

Pancreas

 Chapter 19

Spleen

 Chapter 20

Urinary System

 Chapter 21

Genital System

 Chapter 22

Adrenals

 Chapter 23