In the preface to the first edition of Outline of Orthopedics, John Crawford Adams states that the book "is intended primarily to help students who are studying for the qualifying examinations." His "endeavor has been to present an easily read account of... orthopedic surgery in the shortest possible compass consistent with accuracy...." Now in its seventh edition, Outline of Orthopedics boasts a longevity that testifies to the success of his endeavor. A great deal of information is presented with an economy of words, a very readable style, and superior organization of material.
Drawings and x-ray reproductions are of excellent quality, they are well chosen to illustrate specific points, and they coordinate well with the text. The bibliography, categorized by chapters at the end of the text, has a brief preface explaining the criteria for selecting the items listed. A comprehensive bibliography is not attempted, but many recent articles are included.