for a significant portion of the new information in this book. His ability to select the important developments from the literature of the last five years was essential to the completion of this second edition. Further, Dr. Stone's original research on wounds and sutures is included in this volume. Dr. Felix Rutledge and Dr. Laman Gray, Sr., in addition to all the named authors, made valuable comments. Their years of experience were especially helpful in updating the chapters on ovarian surgery and vaginal hysterectomy. My personal Administrative Assistant, Elizabeth Davies, successfully coor­ dinated my various clinical schedules, speaking engagements and department obligations, providing me the time necessary for writing this book. The advice and support of Jerry Stone, Senior Medical Editor, Springer­ Verlag, also were invaluable in the production of this edition. Lastly, one of our team became ill while we were preparing this book and subsequently died of a rare malignancy. Her outstanding work while with us and her continued interest and encouragement, even though quite of us. Mrs. Sue Koenig was a bright, competent ill, was an inspiration to all and effective co-worker whom is missed by all of us in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Louisville.