Internet mailing lists: a primer

The widespread availability of new electronic sources of information has exponentially increased the amount of information available to the surgeon in recent years. These new sources of information come in various forms, each of which have their own rules and regulations. This article focuses on Internet mailing lists. The practicalities of mailing lists are discussed, with guidelines to help users find lists of interest, join and contribute to, and use this medium effectively while minimising the time spent on it. Pointers to starting one's own list are provided for the motivated reader.