Charles M. Balch & Martin F. McKneally 
Principles and Practice of Research [PDF ebook] 
Strategies for Surgical Investigators

What is the best way to plan surgical research? What problems are most often encountered in clinical research? How should a research report be presented at a scientific meeting? These questions and more are all answered in Principles and Practice of Research.The second edition has added new sections on animal research models, the molecular and cellular dimension of surgical research, and practical guidelines for obtaining government and third-party funding. Other improvements include a friendlier discussion of statistics and updated material about on-line computer literature searches. This book provides every clinical researcher with a roadmap around the pitfalls of poorly designed studies, through the jungle of incomprehensible statistics, and over the hurdles of research reporting to a successful study from start to finish. From the reviews of the first edition: "For me, it is a bible and a must for every Ph.D. or M.D. involved in clinical research, especially in the field of surgery. It should be on the table — not on the book shelf — of both the young as well as the experienced investigator as a readily accessible source of information to avoid the trial-and-error approach to problems in surgical research." #World Journal of Surgery#1 "…a carefully conceived, concise blend of factual theory and principles, practical guidelines, and philosophical perspective… …I have found it hard to identify any omission (even a selected bibliography on laboratory animals, their care, handling, and anatomy is included) and impossible to single out any individual contribution: each is a treasure — well written, concise, and complete." #The Lancet#2 "The feature of the book is that, despite attention to detail, it maintains a clear and practical approach to the whole field, beginning with the reasons for carrying out research, the types of research, and above all the reporting of research… …Almost all aspects of researchare covered, from small retrospective studies to departmental, institutional, national and international projects… …The chapter on writing for publication should be compulsory reading for all budding authors." #Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery#3