Molecular biology is one of the fastest growing areas of medical research and now impinges on almost every medical discipline. This work provides an up-to-date overview of developments in molecular genetics as they relate to orthopedic practice.

In the past two decades we have seen a surge forward in understanding the genetics and biochemistry underlying many pediatric orthopaedic disorders. A few projects have even progressed into the realm of clinical trials that are primarily aimed at controlling progressive disease. Meanwhile, genomic technology development has outpaced expectations and is enabling gene discovery for disorders that were previously intractable with traditional genetic methods. Included in this latter category are common disorders that display multigenic inheritance, sporadic disorders, and very rare conditions that are difficult to ascertain. Simultaneously, the study of pediatric orthopaedic disorders has been continuously refined and updated, highlighting a number of likely genetic conditions that are as yet unsolved. Molecular Genetics of Pediatric Orthopaedic Disorders updates researchers and clinicians of new developments of pediatric orthopaedic genetics. The chapters inform the audience on the revolution in new genomic methods and the impact this is having on potential study designs and the potential to discover genetic causes of many unsolved orthopaedic conditions. Recent examples have been included of pediatric orthopaedic conditions, both rare and common, that are being solved with these new methods. The book also educates pediatric orthopedic clinicians and geneticists on our understanding of the biology of “classic” genetic diseases that were derived from prior genetic studies. Chapters include biobanks and strategies for studying very rare disorders, genes and pathways causing primordial dwarfism, and notch signaling in congenital scoliosis, and more.​

Morrison (human genetics, University of Ulster, UK) and Spence (biomedical science, University of Ulster, UK) offer an accessible reference on the genetic disorders that surgeons can expect to meet in general surgical practice. Written in non-technical language, with a glossary, list of abbreviations, and color and b&w photos and medical images, the book supplies an introduction to the nomenclature and technology of molecular biology, and will be a useful starting point for those who wish to extend their knowledge. Annotation :2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com).

Osteogenesis Imperfecta is the first translational reference professionals can turn to for a source of comprehensive information on this disorder. Although several reviews of the field have been published in various journals, there is no other single source for a compendium of current information. Separate chapters discuss each of the several clinical features of OI. Ethical issues related to OI are discussed, as is the importance of nutrition in managing the OI child and the OI adult. The role of physical medicine and rehabilitation for OI patients is also presented, along with the current status of OI medical treatment and the prospects for genetic engineering in the future. The text also provides the orthopedic surgeon with an advanced discussion of surgical techniques applicable to OI.

This volume of the Orthopaedic Study Guide Series provides the foundation of general orthopedic and basic science. Chapters of this book cohere around three aspects of the musculoskeletal system, anatomy, physiology, and pathology. Next to basic principles, case reports underline key information relating to disorders, diagnosis, and treatment options. Written by leading experts, this volume is a concise guide designed as quick reference, thereby it presents a useful resource for orthopedic residents and fellows.