Preface
The ninth edition of Langman’s Medical Embryology adheres to the tradition
established by the original publication—it provides a concise but thorough de-
scription of embryology and its clinical significance, an awareness of which is
essential in the diagnosis and prevention of birth defects. Recent advances in ge-
netics, developmental biology, maternal-fetal medicine, and public health have
significantly increased our knowledge of embryology and its relevance. Because
birth defects are the leading cause of infant mortality and a major contributor to
disabilities, and because new prevention strategies have been developed, under-
standing the principles of embryology is important for health care professionals.
To accomplish its goal, Langman’s Medical Embryology retains its unique ap-
proach of combining an economy of text with excellent diagrams and scanning
electron micrographs. It reinforces basic embryologic concepts by providing
numerous clinical examples that result from abnormalities in developmental
processes. The following pedagogic features and updates in the ninth edition
help facilitate student learning:
Organization of Material: Langman’s Medical Embryology is organized into two
parts. The first provides an overview of early development from gametogenesis
through the embryonic period; also included in this section are chapters on
placental and fetal development and prenatal diagnosis and birth defects. The
second part of the text provides a description of the fundamental processes of
embryogenesis for each organ system.
Molecular Biology: New information is provided about the molecular basis of
normal and abnormal development.
Extensive Art Program: This edition features almost 400 illustrations, includ-
ing new 4-color line drawings, scanning electron micrographs, and ultrasound
images.
Clinical Correlates: In addition to describing normal events, each chapter con-
tains clinical correlates that appear in highlighted boxes. This material is de-
signed to provide information about birth defects and other clinical entities that
are directly related to embryologic concepts.
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Summary: At the end of each chapter is a summary that serves as a concise
review of the key points described in detail throughout the chapter.
Problems to Solve: These problems test a student’s ability to apply the infor-
mation covered in a particular chapter. Detailed answers are provided in an
appendix in the back of the book.
Simbryo: New to this edition, Simbryo, located in the back of the book, is
an interactive CD-ROM that demonstrates normal embryologic events and the
origins of some birth defects. This unique educational tool offers six original
vector art animation modules to illustrate the complex, three-dimensional as-
pects of embryology. Modules include normal early development as well as
head and neck, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and pulmonary
system development.
Connection Web Site: This student and instructor site (http://connection.
LWW.com/go/sadler) provides updates on new advances in the field and a syl-
labus designed for use with the book. The syllabus contains objectives and
definitions of key terms organized by chapters and the “bottom line,” which
provides a synopsis of the most basic information that students should have
mastered from their studies.
I hope you find this edition of Langman’s Medical Embryology to be an
excellent resource. Together, the textbook, CD, and connection site provide a
user-friendly and innovative approach to learning embryology and its clinical
relevance.
T. W. Sadler
Twin Bridges, Montana
