Preface

Colorectal surgery continues to evolve at a fast pace. Minimal-access techniques, such as laparoscopic, endoanal, and robotic procedures, continue to gain ground. This book, *Current Topics in Colorectal Surgery*, reflects the evolving nature of colorectal disease and its treatment. The chapters cover a wide range of subjects and include original research as well as current and comprehensive reviews, especially in areas where recent developments have had a significant effect on clinical practice.

Written by international experts, the book is divided into six sections. Following the introductory chapter on surgical risk factors are sections on proctology and inflammatory bowel disease. Chapters on colorectal cancer predominate, with comprehensive reviews on surgical anatomy, preoperative and intraoperative investigative techniques, and treatment outcomes. Subsequent chapters discuss the latest advances in robotic technology.

This book is an invaluable resource for physicians, surgeons, nurses, and allied healthcare professionals who seek to refresh and expand their knowledge of coloproctology. It is also a source of excellent information for those preparing for professional examinations. I trust that the readers will find this book both enjoyable as well as educationally rewarding.

I hope this book contributes in some way to the understanding of the diverse aspects of colorectal disease and colorectal surgery. I am most grateful to the authors for their significant efforts and excellent contributions.

> **John Camilleri-Brennan MD (Melit), MD (Dundee), FRCSGlas, FRCSGenSurg, MFSTEd** Honorary Clinical Associate Professor, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK

Section 1 Introducton
