Do No Harm: Stories Of Life, Death And Brain Surgery

Henry Marsh

Physical

Available

'A SUPERB ACHIEVEMENT' IAN MCEWAN

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What is it like to be a brain surgeon?

How does it feel to hold someone's life in your hands, to cut through the stuff that creates thought, feeling and reason

How do you live with the consequences when it all goes wrong?

DO NO HARM offers an unforgettable insight into the highs and lows of a life dedicated to operating on the human brain, in all its exquisite complexity. With astonishing candour and compassion, Henry Marsh reveals the exhilarating drama of surgery, the chaos and confusion of a busy modern hospital, and above all the need for hope when faced with life's most agonising decisions.

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Winner:

PEN Ackerley Prize

South Bank Sky Arts Award for Literature

Shortlisted:

Costa Biography Award

Duff Cooper Prize

Wellcome Book Prize

Guardian First Book Award

Slightly Foxed Best First Biography Prize

Longlisted:

Samuel Johnson Prize for Non-Fiction

What will you learn from this book

  1. Complexity of Neurosurgery: Marsh's memoir highlights the immense complexity and challenges inherent in the field of neurosurgery, where even minor mistakes can have profound consequences for patients.

  2. Human Vulnerability: The book explores the vulnerability of patients facing neurological conditions and the emotional toll it takes on both patients and their families.

  3. Ethical Dilemmas: Marsh grapples with ethical dilemmas faced by neurosurgeons, including decisions about whether to operate, the balance between risks and benefits, and the challenges of informed consent.

  4. Impact on Surgeons: Marsh reflects on the emotional impact of neurosurgery on surgeons themselves, including the stress, burnout, and moral distress that can accompany the profession.

  5. Innovation and Advancements: Despite the challenges, Marsh discusses the importance of innovation and advancements in neurosurgery, highlighting the potential for new techniques and technologies to improve patient outcomes.

  6. End-of-Life Care: The book touches on the complexities of end-of-life care in neurosurgery, including discussions about withdrawing treatment and supporting patients and families through difficult decisions.

  7. Humility and Humanity: Marsh emphasizes the importance of humility and humanity in the practice of neurosurgery, recognizing the limitations of medical knowledge and the need for compassion and empathy towards patients.

  8. Medical System Challenges: Marsh sheds light on the challenges within the medical system, including issues of resource allocation, bureaucratic hurdles, and the pressures of working within a public healthcare system.

  9. Communication Skills: The memoir underscores the importance of effective communication between surgeons, patients, and their families, recognizing the role of clear, honest, and compassionate communication in navigating difficult medical situations.

  10. Appreciation for Life: Ultimately, "Do No Harm" prompts readers to appreciate the fragility and preciousness of life, reminding us of the importance of empathy, dignity, and respect in the face of illness and mortality.

Language English
ISBN-10 178022592X
ISBN-13 9781780225920
No of pages 304
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Weidenfeld & Nicolson
Published Date 13 Mar 2014

About Author

Author : Henry Marsh

NA

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