Under the Knife

Under the Knife chronicles breast surgeon Liz O'Riordan's path through medical training and her career in the operating room. The memoir takes readers inside the world of surgery, revealing the intense dedication and technical precision required to become a specialist surgeon. O'Riordan's narrative shifts dramatically when she receives a breast cancer diagnosis, forcing her to experience medicine from the other side of the consultation desk. Her perspective as both doctor and patient provides unique insights into the medical system and the realities of cancer treatment. The book examines fundamental questions about medical practice, patient care, and human resilience in the face of life-altering circumstances. Through O'Riordan's dual experience as surgeon and patient, readers gain understanding of both the technical and deeply personal aspects of modern medicine.

Readers praise O'Riordan's candid perspective as both a breast cancer surgeon and patient. Many appreciate her detailed medical explanations combined with personal experiences navigating diagnosis and treatment. Liked: - Clear explanations of medical procedures and terminology - Raw honesty about physical and emotional challenges - Practical advice for patients and healthcare workers - Dual perspective of doctor becoming patient Disliked: - Some found certain medical details too technical - A few readers wanted more personal narrative vs clinical information - Multiple mentions that the writing style can feel disjointed at times Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (148 ratings) Amazon UK: 4.5/5 (269 ratings) Amazon US: 4.6/5 (54 ratings) Sample review: "Honest, informative and moving account from both sides of the consulting room. Should be required reading for all healthcare professionals." - Goodreads reviewer

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🔹 After experiencing cancer as both doctor and patient, O'Riordan had to retire from surgery at age 45 due to complications from her treatments, leading to a new career as a speaker and patient advocate. 🔹 The book's title "Under the Knife" carries dual symbolism - referring to both O'Riordan's role wielding the surgical knife and her experience being under it as a patient. 🔹 Breast cancer affects approximately 1 in 8 women in their lifetime, making O'Riordan's unique dual perspective particularly valuable for a large audience. 🔹 O'Riordan underwent two separate breast cancer diagnoses and treatments - her first in 2015 and a recurrence in 2018, both of which are detailed in the memoir. 🔹 Beyond her medical career, O'Riordan is an accomplished triathlete who continued competing in events between her cancer treatments, demonstrating the possibility of maintaining athletic pursuits during recovery.