Last Night in the OR is an engrossing and deeply personal memoir by Dr. Bud Shaw, a transplant surgeon who was at the forefront of the medical revolution in organ transplants during the 1980s. In this compelling narrative, Shaw takes readers through the raw and emotional journey of his career, sharing gripping stories of life and death, triumph and defeat, in the operating room.

From the highs of saving lives to the lows of delivering devastating news to families, Shaw opens a window into the world of a surgeon who must navigate the emotional and physical toll of a demanding, high-stakes profession. His recollections are candid and poignant, capturing both the technical precision required in surgeries and the deep emotional connections he forms with his patients.

Shaw’s writing is both captivating and educational, offering readers a glimpse into the complex world of organ transplantation. The memoir is filled with moments of intense drama, such as performing marathon surgeries, racing against time to retrieve donor organs, and the quiet struggles of balancing personal life with the demands of being a surgeon. Shaw’s reflections on his upbringing in rural Ohio and his relationship with his father, also a surgeon, provide a touching backdrop to his professional story.

This book stands out not only for its medical insight but for its humanity. Shaw’s storytelling is honest and vulnerable, revealing the toll that a career in medicine can take on a person, while also showing the immense reward of saving lives. Last Night in the OR will resonate with readers interested in medicine, as well as those who appreciate heartfelt stories about perseverance, sacrifice, and the complex realities of healing.

In the tradition of great medical memoirs, Shaw’s writing is evocative and thought-provoking, blending the emotional intensity of his experiences with the technical details of his craft. His story is a testament to the passion, dedication, and compassion required in the field of surgery, making this book an unforgettable read.