Luke Cascarini, Clare Schilling , Ben Gurney and Peter Brennan. Oxford University Press price £26.72 pp 292 ISBN

9780199583294

Forming one part of the successful, well-recognised series of 'Oxford Handbooks' for clinical specialities, this book takes the reader through a logical sequence of chapters, starting with the basic sciences, including anatomy, dental occlusion and examination techniques; through to more advanced learning, including skull fractures, oncology and emergencies (eg retrobulbar haemorrhage, bleeding and the compromised airway). Each chapter is well illustrated with photographs, radiographs and systematic diagrams.

As a maxillofacial senior house officer (SHO), I find this textbook a valuable, quick and easy-to-read resource to refer to when on clinic, in accident and emergency or in theatre. In addition, it is pocket sized and vinyl covered, making it practical to carry around and easy to keep clean. A particular highlight is the section on suturing facial lacerations – a 'bread and butter' element of any SHO's toolbox of clinical skills. This chapter details the key points for lip, ear, eyebrow, eyelid and nose lacerations, as well as general principles, avoiding any unnecessary superfluous information.

I feel this textbook should have a place on all SHOs' bookcases, supporting and revising the more advanced science covered in other core textbooks. For those who are preparing for postgraduate examinations the section on basic knowledge and oral medicine is particularly useful, covering common exam topics such as the attachments of muscles of mastication and blistering diseases.

The strength of this textbook is in providing an easy-to-read and understandable guide to the maxillofacial subjects, combining relevant best practice evidence with comprehensive explanations of current treatment methods and applicable clinical advice. I would not hesitate in recommending this textbook to fellow SHOs, more senior colleagues or general dental practitioners wanting a quick reference guide and update to the core area of this subject. It is also very affordable and online e-book versions are available.