Michael Palmer "The Patient"

Author: Michael Palmer Original title: The Patient First published: 2000 Medical topic: microsurgery Description: The undisputed leader among hired killers has a problem. He has been diagnosed with a brain tumor that is virtually inoperable. Malloche, however, is a professional in every sense of the word—in intimidation, deception, armed terrorist operations, manipulating people, and getting what he wants. He decides to entrust his life to the best doctor in the field of neurosurgery. He is not guided, however, by academic titles, the empty boasts of neurosurgery professors, or their reputations. He wants to find someone who has the greatest talent and is able to give him the best possible chance of survival.  The protagonist demands guarantees in a field where no one ever gives them—yet he manages to ensure that the surgeon does the best he can. Failed attempts on patients in the same condition result in the deaths of more neurosurgeons.  Meanwhile, Dr. Jassie Coopeland is working on the ARTIE robot, which could revolutionize brain surgery. The doctor is immensely talented, but her boss takes credit for all her successes...