"Handbood of Fractures" is THE "go-to" guide for any first-year ortho resident. At first, I was put off by its small dimensions (the majority of our ortho texts are the size of smart cars), but bought it on the recommendation of an older (and wiser) resident friend. As a PGY-1, it is an indispensible starting point. True, it isn't the end-all, but any book that contained all there is to reference re: all ortho issues would have to be moved into place by a small crane.
If I were to describe the book in a phrase, it would be as an ideal "launching pad." Any more detailed study can be readily ferreted out, but in the trenches, "Handbook of Fractures" is near indispensible as an instant reference for everything from casting to trauma call. Additionally, it is the best beginner's manual I have ever seen (and I have read a LOT) for establishing at least a foothold in the many different directions that ortho can take you.
If ortho is your future (or present), get "Handbook of Fractures." I only wish I had discovered it as a medical student!
