Since its inception, Hinman’s Atlas of Urological Surgery has remained a key textbook of operative urology, known for its illustrated “step-by-step” pedagogical approach. The recently released fifth edition has modernised this both by further expanding its scope and inclusion of procedural videos through an Expert Consult eBook. The content is presented in 22 sections over 1060 pages in a reader-friendly hard-bound format. The colour line-diagrams and operative photographs are a delight to browse.
This edition introduces several critical updates that make it more than just a superficial revision. Noticeably, the atlas has been substantially reorganised to place robotic-assisted procedures at the forefront, with expanded sections on Robot-Assisted Radical Cystectomy, Robotic Urinary Diversion and others. New dedicated chapters on Gender Affirmation Surgery reflect evolving urological practice with much-needed anatomical and technical clarity for what is a specialised field. Strikingly, descriptions of alternative manoeuvres reflective of the variations in technique that enables adaptation to surgical complexity and requires the ‘surgeon’s intuition,’ as well as additional expert insights into potential pitfalls, delivers learning that has traditionally been found in operating rooms and is often lost in standard textbooks. On the other hand, the text does not neglect surgical basics such as suture technique, nerve blocks, bowel closure, perioperative care and the foundational open surgical principles that are becoming increasingly rare in modern curricula.
The atlas provides access to an eBook via an access code which contains high-fidelity procedural videos including HoLEP, UroLift, autologous slings, sacral neuromodulation, genital and urethral reconstruction techniques amongst others which effectively bridges the gap between the static text and the dynamic operating room.
What stands out for me is the clarity of the illustrations, with clear line drawings and intraoperative photography that allows the reader to clearly discern tissue planes and anatomical relationships.
Hinman’s Atlas remains essential for both the urology trainee seeking to master the basics and the seasoned consultant looking for guidance on a complex reconstruction. The ability of the editors to successfully deliver this difficult balance is in itself a remarkable achievement.
