There are three major texts on diving physiology and medicine available in the English language, of which this is one. Reflecting the considerable experience of its principal author, Carl Edmonds, this is the most clinically focused of them. An all-Australian affair (all four authors, three physicians and a scientist, have had extensive involvement with the Royal Australian Navy’s School of Underwater Medicine), nevertheless wide international consultation and advice has been sought in writing the eight major sections of the book. The fourth edition was first published in hardback in 2002 and this cheaper, paperback version is a very welcome addition.

Diving and subaquatic medicine purports to be “a concise and clinically authoritative guide to all aspects of diving medicine” written for doctors, paramedics, and professional divers attending to the medical needs of those involved in underwater pursuits whether employed or recreational divers. It succeeds well in these objectives. The whole emphasis of the book is that diving safety requires knowledge and its sensible application in order to reduce risk.

Compared to previous editions, substantial updating of information based on contemporary research has been combined with an improved layout. A feature of all editions has been the illuminating case histories, summaries, and key point lists intended to provide for easy reference. Inevitably after three years since initial publication of this edition, some topics already need updating to include newer knowledge.

Fortunately, the unique style of the previous editions has been retained successfully, and Edmonds’ dry sense of humour pervades the book. Information is presented in a practical, very readable manner. Each chapter is sensibly referenced and there is a good index. Illustrations are generally of good quality and pertinent to the associated text. However, some of the photographs have been carried over from edition to edition and are beginning to show their age, whilst some of the radiographs have not reproduced particularly well.

This is the recommended textbook for the new University of Auckland Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Science in diving and hyperbaric medicine, and should be readily accessible on the bookshelf of everyone interested in diving physiology and medicine.