Book excerpt: In this unique book, Professor Mario Pescatori brings his remarkable perspective to the management of a wide array of proctologic problems encountered in his tertiary specialist referral practice, from simple and complex procedures involving perirectal sepsis (abscess and fistula), hemorrhoids, obstruction, defecation, rectal prolapse, and tumors. There are special sections on the problems encountered following endoanal stapled surgery and in the surgery for rectovaginal fistula. Each section presents a series of artistic representations of each of the operative do's and don'ts, providing practical tips and "tricks of the trade" designed to prevent intra- and postoperative complications. The fusion of these images with a pragmatic series of perioperative recommendations gleaned from extensive experience in the treatment of complex proctologic disorders emphasizes the way Professor Pescatori has developed his craft and how the operative skill of proctology is indeed an art form. The Art of Surgical Proctology is an essential addition to the library of every colorectal surgeon and trainee with an interest in proctologic disorders.