In the first three editions, this compact introduction to neurosurgery became firmly established as the indispensable vade mecum for new neurosurgical trainees. It is the perfect guide to the practicalities of the treatment and day-to-day ward management of neurosurgical patients. The trainee is taken step-by-step through the procedures of patient admission, highlighting the key points of the history and examination, ensuring appropriate ward management, and interpreting CT scans and neurosurgical monitoring and scoring systems. Interpretation of CT head scans, conduct of basic neurosurgical procedures, principles of neuro-intensive care, and hydrocephalus and shunt systems--all and more are covered in this thorough fourth edition.