Medicine

John Aiello On The Textbook Debate

New Releases From Cengage

New This Term From Elsevier

New Releases from Informa: The Informa Healthcare Model

New Releases from McGraw-Hill

New Releases from Saunders

New Releases from Springer

New Releases from Thomson-Delmar

New Releases from Wiley & Sons

HUMAN DISEASES. 5th Edition.  Marianne Neighbors. Ruth Tannehill-Jones. Cengage.

This title offers a comprehensive review of the disease process, building a  front-line teaching text for the undergraduate classroom. The reference begins with an introduction to human diseases, including review of the mechanisms of disease, before moving into discussions of specific afflictions and processes. Topics include neoplasms; inflammation and infection; diseases specific to the body systems (musculoskeletal; cardiovascular; blood-born; respiratory; digestive; endocrine; nervous system; eye disorders; and liver/gallbladder). In addition, chapters are devoted to childhood diseases; mental health disorders; and genetic/developmental disorders. Neighbors and Tannehill-Jones are skilled academic writers and their ability to synthesize complicated data and then present it in digestible “bite-size” chunks make this a go-to resource for college instructors. An example of their editorial flair is found in the way they define diseases via a pyramid of headers (description; etiology; symptoms; diagnosis; treatment; and prevention). It’s done this way to demonstrate to students how information moves in the clinical setting. Expert use of illustrations and photographs further serve to augment the narrative, providing the student with well-placed visual explanations when they are most necessary.

Of Related Interest

THE COMPLETE TEXTBOOK OF PHLEBOTOMY. 5th Edition.  Lynn Hoeltke. Cengage.

Phlebotomy continues to be an ever-growing and ever-evolving field, and Hoeltke’s text is a natural fit for the classroom-laboratory. Now in its 5^th edition, The Complete Textbook of Phlebotomy is a comprehensive reference that covers the discipline in a clear, student-friendly style. After introducing the topic, Hoeltke presents a well-designed segment on safety before moving into anatomy and equipment reviews. Additionally, there are very informative chapters on phlebotomy technique, the pediatric patient and legal/ethical issues – rendering this a book for the modern classroom.

MEDICAL ASSISTING: ADMINISTRATIVE AND CLINICAL COMPETENCIES. Michelle Blesi. Virginia Ferrari. 8th edition. Cengage.

Michelle Blesi’s Medical Assisting, now in its 8^th edition, serves as the authority in under-graduate texts aimed at teaching the medical assistant a core skill-set for both administrative and clinical applications. In the modern-day landscape of American healthcare, the role of the medical assistant is ever expanding. In light of the recent passage of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), medical assistants are now being asked to  take a more interactive approach to patient care, helping physicians head off problems before they reach life-threatening crisis stage. As such, the things students in this discipline are being taught in the classroom must directly correlate to what they will experience in the clinical setting. Enter Blesi’s Medical Assisting: this text presents everything the student will need to master in one easy-to-digest reference. Topics of coverage include an examination of the principles of legal and medical ethics; a review of healthcare roles and responsibilities; and ways to develop sound  communication skills. This summary of administrative principles neatly segues into a core review of the body’s organ systems (with stand-out chapters on radiology and cardiology), in addition to a first-rate primer on medical terminology. Blesi (Century College) has also adeptly delineated the mechanics of the medical office in real time, with up-to-date discussion of the Affordable Care Act and electronic health records – two relatively new concepts that have become the face of modern day healthcare.  Medical Assisting succeeds as a front-line teaching text for two reasons: First, it includes every bit of information the student needs to master to gain entry into the field. Second, it imparts the data in a clear, concise and impactful way – with Blesi careful to show students that you can’t remember your way through this course. Instead, you have to be able to link one subject area to the next until absolute mastery of the material is attained. In sum, Blesi has created a teaching resource that students will be able to reference outside the classroom in the clinical setting. And for a textbook author, that is the highest compliment you could ever be paid.

Of Related Interest

HOMEMAKER HOME HEALTH AIDE. Suzann Balduzzi. 7^th edition. Cengage Learning.

As discussed in the preceding review, the landscape of American healthcare is steadily changing. And part of that change encompasses a growing movement to offer more patient care in the home, rather than in the hospital. In turn, Balduzzi’s text offers a cogent and relevant primer on what it takes to be a home health aide, focusing on the particular challenges presented by the different segments of the home-health patient population (from elderly to infants to those with terminal illnesses). Topics of coverage include a full review of the body systems, as well as the common disorders most often encountered in the home setting. The inclusion of practice questions throughout the text compels the student to read for retention as they prepare for certification examinations.

MICROBIOLOGY FOR SURGICAL TECHNOLOGISTS. Margret H. Manning Rodriguez. Second edition. Cengage Learning.

The hospital setting is over-run with various pathogens that pose risks to patients beyond the scope of their actual afflictions. Accordingly, it is vital for the healthcare professional to understand this fact and to prevent further disease transmission. In sum, patient safety is the theme of Rodriguez’s text, and she offers an expert outline on how surgical technologists should proceed in protecting the perioperative setting. Via in depth exploration of microbiology (and the common viruses, bacteria and parasites that populate the hospital setting), Rodriguez shows her readers how to maintain a sterile environment in the operating room. Case studies augment the text and challenge the reader to analyze and act.

ON THE JOB ESSENTIALS OF NURSING ASSISTING. Barbara Acello. Barbara Hegner. Third edition. Cengage Learning.

This handy, pocket-size manual, meant to be carried by the nursing assistant at all times, offers a transitional tool that be used as students move from the safety of the classroom to the grind of the clinical setting. Acello and Hegner are healthcare veterans and they have designed this text to include the relevant data that the assistant nurse needs to see, including safety and infection control guidelines and detailed prompts on how to respond to particular events. On The Job Essentials stands out for its organization and for its in depth exploration into the daily life of nursing – an easy-to-understand handbook for the hospital that can be referenced on the fly.

UNDERSTANDING HUMAN BEHAVIOR. Alyson Honeycutt. Mary Elizabeth Milliken. Cengage. 9th Edition.

Now in its 9^th edition, Understanding Human Behavior by  Alyson Honeycutt and Mary Elizabeth Milliken serves a front-line undergraduate coursebook dissecting basic psychology from the health care perspective. In sum, this text looks at a broad sampling of mental health topics encountered in the clinical setting and then delineates how the treatment provider should approach each of them. Too many times, medical professionals are too quick to treat the illness while discounting the emotional side of the equation. Yet, as Honeycutt and Milliken assert, these factors are intricately intertwined and cannot be separated. In turn, successful control of the situation must include careful consideration of the patient’s emotional state. Topics of coverage include the responsibilities inherent to the healthcare professional; understanding cultural bias; achieving self-understanding as student/provider; the influences of behavior; defense mechanisms; patterns of behavior; caring for the dying patient; and stress management.  Understanding Human Behavior is remarkable for its depth of information and for the way it enters into an easy discussion with the reader. Rather than overwhelming the student with a barrage of information, the authors instead build from one topic area to another in seamless fashion, carefully demonstrating how these concepts inter-relate. In addition, the inclusion of practical examples and practice activities allow the reader to immediately test their grasp of the information.

Recommended as a primary text in any undergraduate nursing course that stresses application and retention rather than rote memorization.

Also of Note From the Cengage Healthcare Shelf

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS. Ann Ehrlich. Carol Schroeder. Laura Ehrlich. Katrina Schroeder. Cengage. 8th Edition.

 This is one of the best medical “dictionaries” we have ever seen. Instead of serving as a list of medical words and phrases, Medical Terminology is actually a textbook that introduces students to the human body via its own private vocabulary. Specifically, readers are taught to learn the complex terminology inherent to the health professions by dissection – dissecting the parts of words (prefixes, suffixes and root words) in order to arrive at their meaning. The authors have done an exemplary job at presentation here, organizing the text by body system. As such, each chapter kicks off with a summary of the words related to that particular part of the body. Next, an examination of the disease process follows, including discussion of diagnostic protocols and treatment regimens. Careful scrutiny of this organizational template reveals that this is truly the way that students learn complex information – first grasping the specialized vocabulary and then applying it to a conceptual arena. The 8^th edition of Medical Terminology includes a review of the latest terms used in the field. Well-plotted graphics and images augment the text.

Recommended as a supporting course text in any health care discipline. The organizational template in use here should make this a model for terminology handbooks in other disciplines.

by John Aiello

The Informa Healthcare Model

The new quarter has spawned the release of several more outstanding texts from Informa Healthcare and CRC in the realm of medical science publishing. To this end, we spotlight the following:

HANDBOOK OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE. 4^th Edition. Edited by: Rajesh Pahwa. Kelly E. Lyons. Informa.

Diseases which attack the cognitive abilities of the brain (namely Alzheimer’s and Parkinson diseases) remain medicine’s greatest challenge, as scientists struggle to create practical treatment options for afflictions that often completely destroy the individual’s quality of life.

In this text, now in its 4^th edition, the authors have created a resource which dissects its subject matter in a way that promotes in depth understanding of an ever-evolving area of focus.

Here, Pahwa (University of Kansas Medical Center) and Lyons (University of Kansa Medical Center) offer their readers an intimate exploration of Parkinson’s Disease, with the latest information on a multitude of topics and sub-topics (including the pathology, neurochemistry and etiology of the malady) – the ultimate goal to demonstrate to the reader that effectively treating this disease takes an integrated approach on the part of the physician (who must apply his understanding of the body-whole to the inner-workings of the brain in order to treat the neurological abnormalities prevalent in Parkinson’s patients).

In this text, the authors have created an invaluable resource which allows doctors and caregivers to aggressively manage symptoms while simultaneously enriching the patient’s daily life.

During the last 2 decades, there have been great advancements in the treatment of Parkinson’s. Accordingly, Pahwa and Lyons take diligent care to illuminate readers to the fact that effective management of this disease requires a multi-pronged approach (incorporating pharmacologic and surgical options with rehabilitation techniques as a means to help patients recover waning motor skills).

In Handbook of Parkinson’s Disease, the editors do a note worthy job of stitching together the leading voices in the field, meshing the latest research studies with impactive analysis of the human body (and brain function). The result is a treatise that shows readers that effective management of Parkinson’s patients must advocate a muti-focused treatment approach – one that looks to mitigate crippling symptoms in order to keep patients as independent as possible.

Recommended as an in-office reference to all internists and neurologists who maintain Parkinson practices. In addition, this handbook would also prove useful for advanced students in the classroom, since it serves as the authoritative voice on both the treatment and diagnosis of Parkinson’s. Finally, recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.  

by John Aiello

VULVAR DISEASE. A Clinicopathological Approach. Editors: Debra S. Heller. Robert C. Wallach. Informa Healthcare.

This text, like the featured titles that precede it in this column, is recognized for its ability to provide comprehensive discussion on a specific component of medical study. Here, the authors have created a truly comprehensive manual exploring all aspects of vulvar disease. This medical specialty can indeed be quite challenging; in turn, Vulvar Disease seeks to assist physicians with questions of diagnosis, symptom identification and treatment of this specific practice area (offering counsel to both the pathologist and practicing clinician). Topics of focus include management of vulva-based lesions; inflammation and systemic disease in the gynecologic region; infections; in addition to analysis of both benign and malignant neoplasms endemic to the vulva. The lesson of this text is to remind physicians that disease primary to this region can take many forms and cause many symptoms. Thus, physicians need to know how to recognize both serious and benign problems and treat patients accordingly.

Recommended to dermatologists, gynecologists and pathologists whose work is focused on diagnosis and treatment of vulvar disease.

by John Aiello

Previously Featured

PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF SURGERY FOR THE COLON, RECTUM, AND ANUS. Third edition. Philip. H. Gordon. Santhat Nivatvongs. Informa Healthcare.

Principles and Practice encompasses a complete summary of surgical treatment options for conditions of the colon, rectum and anal regions of the human body. Here, Gordon and co-authors have created a complete text that addresses the etiology, diagnosis, and surgical management of myriad conditions that originate in this area of the GI tract.

As noted, this tome is comprehensive in tone and includes expert review of the surgical anatomy and physiology of the colon, rectum and anus; diagnosis of common disorders (including hemorrhoids; anorectal abscesses, Pilonida Disease, neoplasms of the colon, large bowel carcinoma, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s Disease and Diverticulitis); new treatment approaches to colorectal disease including minimally invasive surgeries; complications as a result of surgery; and long-term management options for colon-based diseases.

In addition to dissecting each point of discussion in terms of diagnosis and etiology, the authors also provide illustrated instruction ofvarious colon and rectal surgical procedures as a means to elevate this text from a ‘reference survey’ to a manual that can be used in the direct course of patient treatment.

The new edition of Principles and Practice includes revised sections on laparoscopic colon/rectal surgery, virtual colonoscopy and laparoscopic colectomy, data which represents the ‘wave of the future’ in terms of the direction treatment of colorectal disease will continue to take. Readers will immediately be struck by full-color plates, photographs, and diagrams that populate these pages and bring the presentation into life while isolating the most important aspects of a given chapter.

In terms of texts that survey the colon (in addition to the rectum and anus), Principles and Practice sets the standard – a comprehensive and elaborate study of a burgeoning area of concentration among internists and surgeons.

Highly recommended as an in-office reference for gastrointestinal specialists and for GI surgeons. Further recommended as a general reference for all Health Science libraries, noted for its amazing breadth and impeccable organization – a book that will assist students and practicing physicians for years to come.

by John Aiello

INFECTIOUS DISEASE IN CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE. Second edition. Edited by Burke A. Cunha. Informa Healthcare.

There is probably no greater challenge confronting medicine today than the challenge that comes in attempting to mitigate the incidence of infectious disease in the hospital setting. And this problem is magnified tenfold when juxtaposed with the mission of critical care medicine, as patients in intensive care wards are often seriously ill and suffering multi-system breakdowns (these individuals who have been left susceptible to opportunistic infections that can kill in a matter of hours).

In this informative and important study, Cunha dissects the data with the sure-hand of a master clinician, as the reader is presented with an in depth exploration into ways the physician can diagnose (and best control) the spread of infection among critically-ill patients.

Infectious Disease is comprehensive in tone and written into clear dimensions, the authors analyzing the material in linear fashion, one topic building on the next in order to create this fundamental resource. Topics of coverage include Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus; Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci; investigation of infection outbreaks in the critical care setting; how to institute effective infection-control measures; the incidence of fever in the critical care unit; sepsis in the critical care unit; the incidence of meningitis in intensive care settings; acute Myocarditis and acute Pericarditis in the critical care unit; and a wonderfully informative chapter on community-acquired pneumonia in intensive care settings (to cite only a small number of the most notable chapters).

In addition to instructing physicians on how to make the proper diagnosis between infection and non-infectious mimics, the authors also present a full overview of pertinent therapeutic considerations as they construct a go-to reference with broad-sweeping impact.

In terms of its presentation, Infectious Disease serves as a remarkable example of how to edit a scientific treatise: Even though there are multiple contributing writers, Cunha has stitched the material together in seamless fashion so as to construct a textbook by myriad experts in the field that reads like it was written by a single clinician.

Recommended to all infectious disease specialists as in-office reference that will assist in both the direct treatment of patients and in future research on how to reduce life-threatening infection during the critical care process. Finally, this book would prove indispensable to all Health Science libraries as a general reference.

by John Aiello

ATLAS OF OPERATIVE LAPAROSCOPY AND HYSTEROSCOPY (Encyclopedia of Visual Medicine). 3rd Edition. Editor: Jacques Donnez. Informa Healthcare.

This atlas offers an authoritative summary on all pertinent aspects of gynecological surgery. In today’s medical landscape, one of the most important advances in surgery has come via this realm, as science’s ability to develop less invasive surgical techniques have cut down on both patient suffering and long (costly) recuperation times. Donnez’s treatise is divided into two primary parts. In section one, Laser Laparoscopy is discussed at length, with detailed analysis of endometriosis; tubal pathology; ovarian pathology; uterine and pelvic-floor pathology (in addition to review of the incidence of cancerous growths in the gynecological region and common-place complications which result from laser laparoscopic procedures). In section two, Operative Hysteroscopy is explored, as physicians are presented with a comprehensive overview of Hysteroscopy and its place in medicine’s present-day arsenal against gynecologic disease. Readers will note many marked differences between this volume and the previous edition. Specifically, revisions reflect advances in the field as related to laparoscopy, as better instruments and more refined surgical techniques have decreased pain for patients – now making these the treatments of choice for minimally invasive gynecologic surgery. Furthermore, Donnez has provided in depth chapters on both gynecologic oncology and urogynecology which serve to demonstrate to the surgeon that this is one of the most intricate and layered regions of the human body (thus demanding the scientist approach treatment from a broad perspective which considers the full effects of surgery on related subsystems). Magnificent illustrations and a well-developed bibliography round out this ultimate guide to laparoscopic and hysteroscopic procedures.

Recommended as in-office, ‘go-to guide’ for all physicians and surgeons whose practice area is based in gynecological medicine. Further recommended as an expert teaching text in courses which focus on teaching the nuances and intricacies of gynecological surgery to students – this indispensable point of reference for physicians seeking certification in the field.

by John Aiello

INFECTION MANAGEMENT FOR GERIATRICS IN LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES. Second Edition. Edited by Thomas T. Yoshikawa and Joseph G. Ouslander. Informa Healthcare.

Infections among the elderly in nursing care or assisted living facilities are some of the most troubling issues facing geriatric-centered physicians today. Recently, in Northern California, an outbreak of the Norovirus (identified by stomach cramps and bouts of diarrhea and vomiting) caused widespread illness in myriad locations (including multiple elderly-care facilities and a prison), prompting administrators to quarantine residents so that the spread of the infection could be limited. However, outbreaks of Norovirus often occur in long-term care situations due to the sheer number of elderly living in such close proximity to one another. And the incidence of these types of infections is only likely to increase over the next decade, as the baby-boom generation ages and slowly becomes part of the long-term demographic. In this text, editors Yoshikawa and Joseph G. Ouslander provide an in depth analysis of the techniques of infection management currently being used by geriatricians and primary care physicians who tend the elderly. Now in its second edition, Infection Management sets forth a complete discussion of the full arsenal of information available to healthcare providers. Topics of coverage include how to diagnose, control and treat infection in the elderly, in addition to guiding both administrators and physicians on how to prevent the incidence/transmission of common infections (pneumonia; upper respiratory infections; gastrointestinal infections; conjunctivitis; sinusitis) prevalent in long-term care facilities. This edition also includes data on relatively new threats to the elderly such as SARS and West Nile Virus, with salient instruction on what unique challenges these diseases pose for geriatricians.

This text is impeccably researched and serves as an authoritative reference point on infection control in the elderly populous. Accordingly, it is recommended to both physicians and administrators who work in long-term care facilities or nursing homes. In addition, it is recommended to internists, primary care physicians and nurse practitioners who treat large numbers of geriatric patients. Finally, recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference.

by John Aiello

MOLECULAR MECHANISMS IN HYPERTENSION. Richard N. Re. Donald J. DiPette. Ernesto L. Schiffrin. James R. Sowers. Taylor and Francis.

Hypertension is one of the most devastating afflictions man can sustain – this ‘silent killer’ attacks myriad organ systems, assaulting the heart and kidneys, oft times causing stroke and renal breakdown. But what is the exact impetus behind hypertensive disease? Just what causes arterial pressures to jump so dramatically that premature organ failure ensues? In this text, Re and co-writers look to unmask the mechanisms behind the incidence of hypertension so that more effective treatments can be developed by researchers in the laboratories of the world. Molecular Mechanisms offers discussion on what happens within the walls of the body to create an increase in arterial pressures. Specifically, the authors examine both the causes of hypertension and its grave aftereffects on the body, with exploration of the components of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) and how this system of hormones is altered in those suffering from hypertensive disorders. In addition, non-RAS peptides and the role the Adrenal Medulla plays in hypertension are considered. Readers will also find a full analysis of many of the new technologies now in use which assist researchers and clinicians in their investigation as medicine moves toward the construction of a bigger better arsenal of medications to combat the negative effects excessive pressures within the arterial labyrinth creates. Molecular Mechanisms is noteworthy not only because of its scope and organization, but also because it seeks to unlock the mechanisms of cause behind a disease that has confounded physicians for generations. In point of fact, High Blood Pressure can sometimes take years to destroy pieces of the body, its effects realized over decades, slowly eroding the arterial pathways within the body and altering its delicate balance. Accordingly, this text throws down the gauntlet and compels physicians to not simply be content with prescribing the medications currently available, but instead to look to locate the catalyst behind the breakdown in hopes that a better understanding of the disease will inspire more efficient medical therapies (and eventual prevention).

Recommended as a reference manual for researchers in cardiology and vascular medicine – the new information presented by Re and co-writers is meant to bring medicine back to the drawing board insofar as hypertension is concerned: The message here is that there is still much for doctors to learn about this disease and its dark aftermath.

by John Aiello

FRACTURES OF THE FOOT AND ANKLE. Diagnosis and Treatment of Injury and Disease. Edited by Jason H. Calhoun and Richard T. Laughlin. Taylor and Francis.

Fractures Of The Foot is one of the only studies of its kind to dedicate itself to a complete dissection of injury and disease as it relates to the foot/ankle region of the human anatomy. Well defined and impeccably researched, this text compiles the most recent scientific research and thinking on the foot. Calhoun (University of Missouri) and Laughlin (Wright State University) present the most common disorders that afflict the foot area, including in depth discussion of how physicians should confront treatment of patients who present with fractures and crush-type injuries. In addition, there is analysis of diagnosis and treatment of pediatric injury, soft tissue management and tendon rupture. Further, discussion of burns, amputation and chronic infection is included, along with strong direction on post-operative care and courses of rehabilitation therapy after surgery. One of the best attributes of this manual is in the editing: well-ordered chapters use illustrations and slides to create a text that will prove instantaneously useful to the practicing physician/surgeon in the course of patient treatment.

Recommended to all internists and orthopedic surgeons, as well as radiologists. Also recommended as a general reference text for all Health Science libraries.

by John Aiello

SUNSCREENS. Regulations and Commercial Development. Third Edition. Nadim A. Shaath, Editor. Taylor and Francis.

Sunscreens, now revised in the third edition, is an important reference in support of dermatological healthcare in the 21st century. Skin cancer — and specifically, skin disease caused by sun damage — is a growing concern in the medical community which has sparked renewed attention among researchers. This selection by Nadim Shaath (President of Alpha Research in New York) features analysis of the most recent data available on sunscreen development. Many different groups play a role in the production of these wonder potions which are powerful enough to disarm the rays of the sun. New sunscreens are the product of many different perspectives that grow from private industry, regulatory agencies, medical doctors and academic researchers. Here, Shaath’s treatise chronicles the process, including discussion on regulations governing sunscreen production in the United States, Japan, Europe and Australia. This volume features information on the most recent advancements in the field, with valuable insight into the cosmetic aspects of sunscreen, waterproofing, daily use considerations, and occupational hazard protection.

A one-of-its-kind reference that is appropriate for use as an in-office reference by chemists and researchers in the field. Also recommended as a general reference text for Health Science libraries and other libraries that specialize in Pharmaceutical research and development.

by John Aiello

TREATMENT OF PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGIC DISORDERS. Harvey S. Singer. Eric H. Kossoff. Adam L. Hartman. Thomas O. Crawford. Taylor and Francis.

This text is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of neurologic affliction of the child-patient. In depth in focus and acutely detailed, Treatment of Pediatric covers myriad neurologic disorders, including Crainiosynostosis, Cerebral Palsy, Hydrocephalus, febrile Seizures, multiple forms of Epilepsy, Tourette Syndrome, Muscular Dystrophies, Meningitis, Shaken Baby Syndrome, Lesch-Nyhan Disease, Syncope, learning disabilities, pediatric sleep disorders, ADHD, as well as invaluable discussion on anxiety disorders in the young patient. Chapters are well-designed and logically presented, with each affliction defined according to etiology and symptomology, before moving into diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and management. We have recommended this book because of its vast and comprehensive tone: there is simply information here on every major pediatric disorder, with up-to-date recommendations regarding treatment and therapy.

Appropriate for all pediatric neurologists, as well as internists and primary care physicians who see a large number of child-patients. Also recommended as a teaching text in courses dedicated to the study of neurologic data as it relates to the pre-teen patient. Finally, should be included in all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

by John Aiello

Elsevier’s Summer Shelf

ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY REVIEW GUIDE: COMPANION TO THE TEXTBOOK OF CLINICAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY. 3RD EDITION. Catherine Otto. Rebecca Gibbons Schwaegler. Rosario Freeman. Elsevier.

Catherine Otto’s Textbook of Clinical Echocardiography (reviewed below) is regarded as the bible of cardiac radiography. In turn, this review guide escorts new arrivals to the field through the labyrinth of the echo lab, offering expert guidance on how to administer an echocardiogram so that it yields reliable findings. Topics of coverage include: Principles of echocardiographic image acquisition and Doppler analysis; normal anatomy and flow patterns on transthoracic echocardiography; transesophageal echocardiography; advanced echocardiographic modalities; clinical indications and quality assurance; left and right ventricular systolic function; ventricular diastolic filling and function; coronary artery disease; cardiomyopathies, hypertensive, and pulmonary heart disease; pericardial disease; valvular stenosis; valvular regurgitation; prosthetic valves; endocarditis; cardiac masses and potential cardiac source of embolus; and congenital heart disease. In sum, this tidy little volume comprises the perfect study guide, developed to help the reader prepare for examinations in a way that stresses retention over the rote mechanics of memorization. Impeccably written/edited, Echocardiography Review Guide is worthy of a place on both the student’s and the practicing clinician’s shelf.

Of Related Interest

ASE’S COMPREHENSIVE ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY. 2ND EDITION. Roberto Lang. Steven Goldstein. Itzhak Kronzon. Bijoy Khandheria. Victor Mor-Avi. Elsevier.

This volume, constructed by experts from the American Society of Echocardiography, employs in depth narrative analysis, case studies and online resources to review the latest advancements in the field. This edition is noted for its dissection of the most recent cutting-edge 2D and 3D advances.

Also of Note This Quarter from Elsevier

 

INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH: UNDERSTANDING AND APPLYING MULTIPLE STRATEGIES. 5th Edition. Elizabeth DePoy. Laura Gitlin. Mosby.

This indispensable guide provides a road map for health science students in terms of research strategies and protocols. Here, DePoy and Gitlin gut the subject with flair and precision, dissecting the fine points of qualitative, quantitative, naturalistic, experimental-type and mixed method research comprehensively. Topics of coverage include the essentials of research; the philosophical foundations of the thinking process; how to frame a problem and then explore it; developing your knowledge-base; design approaches; mixed-method designs; action processes; data collection; and analysis in naturalistic inquiry (to cite random high-points). I chose this text for a spotlight because the elements of research act as the cornerstone of medicine: Doctors must know how to wade into a problem and quickly think their way through it, knowing exactly how and where to look for answers. In turn, DePoy and Gitlin do a laudable job introducing readers to the subject in a clear and concise manner, creating a true ‘student’ manual that will ultimately serve the health care professional long after graduation.

Also of note this quarter from Elsevier:

PEDIATRIC DECISION-MAKING STRATEGIES. Albert Pomeranz. Svapna Sabnis. Sharon Busey. Robert Kliegman. Saunders.

Designed as a companion to Nelson’s Textbook of Pediatrics and Nelson’s Essentials of Pediatrics, Pomeranz’s treatise presents an algorithmic approach to diagnosis, investigation and treatment of common pediatric disorders.  Tightly written and impeccably layered, this text is perfect for quick reference in the clinical setting.

KNOWLEDGE DEVELOPMENT IN NURSING: THEORY AND PROCESS. 9^th Edition.  Peggy Chinn. Maeona Kramer. Mosby.

This text analyzes ‘knowledge’ in relation to nursing theory, artfully illuminating the link between nursing theory, research and practice and then applying the sum of the lesson to the clinical realm.

by John Aiello

The Classroom Medicine Shelf: Summer 2014

RANG AND DALE’S PHARMACOLOGY FLASHCARDS. M.M. Dale. D.G. Haylett. Churchill Livingston.

This indispensable compendium presents 320 system-based flashcards. These cards, in multi-color format, feature the most important drugs in use, with particular focus on the mechanism of action of each medication. Moreover, students don’t just receive a primer on  the most widely-used medicines, but instead, also receive delineation on their clinical uses. The idea is to help the physician-in-training draw a parallel to what drugs work in what patient-settings (stressing that the reader learn the information not only to pass exams but also to apply to the practice of medicine). Must-have resource for myriad certification exams, including Best of Five and USMLE Step 11.

NETTER’S ANATOMY FLASH CARDS. 4th Edition. John T. Hansen. Saunders.

These cards enable the student to review the foundational principles of anatomy while in mobile mode.  The best aspect of this teaching resource is that it allows students to self-pace the flow of information and focus on weak areas of understanding. Review of Netter’s Anatomy  Flash Cards is imperative to gaining a firm grasp of the human body and its intricate structure.

FERRI’S BEST TEST. Third Edition. Fred Ferri. Saunders.

This text, in pocket-size format, is designed for use by the student in the clinical setting. Ferri’s Best Test helps the physician-in-training navigate their way through the grand labyrinth of laboratory medicine and diagnostic imaging, helping them to glean a firm understanding of how and why these tests are used. In addition, Ferri’s Best Test goes one-step further and addresses the cost-element of the equation, imploring students to consider the tests they are ordering in relation to the financial burden that will be levied on the patient and on the medical industry as a whole. Notable for the way the author surveys multiple points of focus in an authoritative and easy-to-digest format. Moreover, this new edition looks at the latest in imaging techniques, including magnetic resonance enterography, careful to keep pace with an ever-evolving field.

by John Aiello

TEXTBOOK OF PHYSICAL DIAGNOSIS. 7th Edition. Mark Swartz. Saunders.

The practice of medicine ultimately comes down to being able to sift through a list of signs and symptoms and arrive at a conclusion as to why the patient is ill. This benchmark text by Mark Swartz (State University of New York) dissects ways doctors should approach interviews and physical examinations to arrive at diagnosis. What’s best about Swartz’s text is that he steps outside the box in an effort show the reader that it’s not all about chemistry panels and laboratory results. Instead, Swartz stresses that doctors will get more readily useable data if they bring a human-ness to the process. The idea is to look at the patient as a complete person via analysis of  cultural background and personal belief systems; if a physician can do this, he will  better be able to unlock the mystery of  the matter. Topics of coverage include how to conduct a productive patient interview; interpreting patient responses; the cultural quandary; assessment of nutritional status; how to conduct a physical examination and interpret results as to each independent organ system; and how to examine different types of patients (pregnant; geriatric; pediatric; and the acutely ill). Designed for both the physician and the nurse- practitioner.

by John Aiello

GRAY’S ANATOMY FOR STUDENTS. 3rd Edition. Richard Drake. Wayne Vogel. Adam Mitchell. Churchill Livingstone.

This volume serves as a comprehensive review of the anatomy of the human body. Designed for the student reader, Gray’s has established its lofty place in the annals of medical literature because it provides layered analysis of the components of the human structure in a style that is readily accessible to the student-reader. Select topics of coverage include: the body; an explanation of anatomy; a review of the body systems; imaging; and clinical case review. Specifically, the In the Clinic boxes provide invaluable exploration of core-material, encouraging readers to take an interactive role in analyzing data in relation to specific diseases. In sum, there’s a reason that Gray’s Anatomy is synonymous with the science classroom: The format used to teach students is tried and true and it has proved vital to the instruction of hundred of thousands of physicians world-wide.

Also see this review of Gray’s Anatomy by John Aiello from 2005.

by John Aiello

ROSEN’S EMERGENCY MEDICINE. John Marx. Robert Hockberger. Ron Walls. Saunders.

Marx and co-writers have created the ultimate treatise in terms of emergency medicine. This two-volume set offers a precise and layered summary of the ER. Highlights include diagnosing and treating the TIA; how to manage cardiovascular emergencies; the use of imaging in ER diagnosis; and resuscitation of the trauma patient. The unique Cardinal Presentations Section presents an easy-to-use guide to differential diagnosis of scenarios common to the ER, including chest pain and fever. Expert use of illustrations and graphics augment the text, bringing the information into real time. The best reference on the ER currently available.

CORONARY STENTING: A Companion To Topol’s Textbook of Interventional Cardiology. Matthew Price. Saunders.

During the last 20 years, the use of stenting to reopen blocked arteries has revolutionized cardiac medicine and saved thousands of lives along the way – this procedure that allows the practitioner to intervene during an event without having to expose the patient to the risk-laden trauma of open-heart surgery. Price’s treatise serves as a companion to Topol’s Textbook of Interventional Cardiology (by Dr. Eric Topol of Scripps Clinic), detailing the most recent advances in stenting.  This volume teems with new and vital data, including: advances in drug-eluting stent design; analysis of recent clinical trials examining the comparative effectiveness of coronary stents; percutaneous revascularization of diabetics who present with left-main occlusion; and the use of intravascular ultrasound and optical coherence tomography in stent implantation. In addition to the wealth of information contained in Coronary Stenting, the book is notable for its well-thought-out design: Templated chapters and the deliberate use of illustrations never fail to take the reader into account; the whole point behind the layout is to allow information to be located without the undue waste of time. Coronary Stenting speaks to a split demographic – appropriate for both the classroom and the practicing clinician.

PRACTICAL MANAGEMENT OF PAIN. 5th edition. Honorio Benzon. James Rathmell. Christopher Wu. Dennis Turk. Mosby.

Speak to 100 random patients, and those 100 patients will tell you that the one thing that scares them to death is the idea of pain. “Will it hurt much?” is probably the single most common question that every doctor hears daily. Practical Pain Management is a veritable ‘one-stop shop’ on the subject, offering erudite  analysis of the phenomenon of pain on a multiplicity of levels. Topics of focus include diagnosis of pain syndromes; reasons and rationales for management; treatment modalities; post stroke pain; assessment of disability in the pain-patient; and burn pain. The authors offer layered discussion of treatment options (joint injections, ultrasound-guided therapies, and cutting-edge medication therapies) to show the complexity of pain management, reminding doctors that treatment plans must be tailored to suit the individual. A true library on the subject, Practical Pain Management stitches together the leading voices in the field into a single volume. The best ‘pain book’ out there circa 2013.

by John Aiello

Spotlight On Surgical References

MASTER TECHNIQUES IN FACIAL REJUVENATION. Babak Azizzadeh. Mark R. Murphy. Calvin M. Johnson. Saunders.

This grand compendium stitches together the ruminations of the pioneers in facial rejuvenation techniques. In sum, Master Techniques collects in one place ‘lectures’ from the leading facial plastic surgeons and dermatologists who share the secrets of their craft,with each individual chapter summarizing the physician/writer’s surgical techniques. Topics of coverage include the aging face; facial anatomy; the open brow lift; Asian blepharoplasty; the deep plane face lift; and complementary fat grafting. The collective editorial emphasis on minimally invasive procedures is notable as the physicians strive to rejuvenate the face in a way that limits ancillary tissue damage and long recovery times. Two DVDS are included with this manual, providing an interactive atlas that features video reproductions of the surgical techniques examined.

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY. 2ND EDITION. Raymond J. Fonseca. Timothy A. Turvey. Robert D. Marciani. Saunders.

This 3-volume set comprises the authoritative reference on oral and maxillofacial surgical techniques. Here, the reader isn’t just provided with some cursory overview of the field. Alternatively, every oral and maxillofacial invasive procedure currently in practice is explored, with in depth dissection of a topic-list that includes orthognathic surgery; trauma surgery; surgical pathology; surgery of TM disorders; dental implants; cleft palate correction; craniofacial surgery; cosmetic surgery; and reconstructive surgery. Moreover, the authors don’t stop with the summation of these surgical interventions. Instead, data on myriad related aspects of the process is presented, with incisive delineation of  diagnostic imaging; the role of the anesthesiologist; the treatment plan; rehabilitation; and the often over-looked psychological impact on the patient. Over 2,500 illustrations augment a comprehensive reference unsurpassed in the field.

Of Related Interest

MAXILLOFACIAL TRAUMA AND ESTHETIC FACIAL RECONSTRUCTION. 2ND EDITION. Peter Ward Booth. Barry Eppley. Rainer Schmelzeisen. Saunders.

These physicians are leaders in their field and they address all aspects of treatment for victims of facial trauma. Noted for its use of illustrations and graphics and it’s ‘moment-by-moment’ focus that carefully explains every facet of a given procedure. Serves as the editorial sibling of the Fonseca/Turvey/Marciani text spotlighted above.

COSMETIC FACIAL SURGERY. Joe Niamtu. Mosby.

This reference serves as the definite summary of common head and neck cosmetic-based procedures. Areas of coverage include face and neck lifts and eye surgery. Noted for erudite discussion of the facial aging process and ways for physicians to orchestrate the patient consultation. Pairs seamlessly with the Azizzadeh/Murphy/Johnson text.

by John Aiello

CRITICAL CARE ULTRASOUND. Philip Lumb. Saunders.

Implementation of ultrasound has become common-place for physicians across the spectrum as it allows doctors to get a glimpse inside the body and move toward appropriate diagnosis without delay. To this end, Lumb (USC Department of Anesthesiology) has created a benchmark reference appropriate for the clinical setting, emergency room and classroom. In Critical Care Ultrasound, readers are provided with a manual that offers clear delineation on the use of ultrasound imaging to aid in both diagnosis and with the completion of various procedures. Topics of coverage include: the fundamentals of ultrasound; ultrasound in neurocritical care; ultrasound in vascular medicine (with coverage of ultrasonography for deep vein thrombosis); pleural ultrasound; echocardiography; the ICU and hemodynamics; abdominal and emergency ultrasound; and the use of ultrasound in pediatric units. A primer on specialized ultrasound techniques has also been included. Lumb’s text is notable for myriad reasons, but the feature that most resonates is found in his call to providers to implement a holistic approach – the idea is that treatment can be made more specific when the physician is able to investigate the complete network of body systems in relation to the patient’s clinical presentation. Well-reasoned use of images and videos augment the text, providing  relevant  instruction on how ultrasound should be used in critical-care medicine. Simply, Lumb has created an impeccable text: In terms of writing, format and connection to the clinical setting, Critical Care Ultrasound stands tall.

by John Aiello

TEXTBOOK OF CLINICAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY. Catherine Otto. Saunders.

Echocardiography is one of the most important non-invasive examinations that clinicians have at their disposable, allowing them to accurately diagnose heart abnormalities. In turn, Catherine Otto is a veritable master at echocardiography interpretation – a physician with immense skill who has the all-too-rare ability to write for the classroom. In Textbook of Clinical Echocardiography (now in its 5th edition), Dr. Otto presents an in depth study on how to use echocardiography on the front lines of diagnosis. Accordingly, one of the most relevant aspects of this new edition is Dr. Otto’s presentation on how to use advanced techniques (the contrast echo; the 3D echo; and the intraoperative transesophageal echo) to paint a living picture of the mechanical-actions of the heart. As Dr. Otto notes, these examinations give radiologist and clinician the first opportunity to peer through the walls of the heart and evaluate functionality on many distinct levels. To this end, Dr. Otto reviews ASE guidelines for echocardiographic assessment, providing updated tables of measurement that document the normal perimeters of function. Finally, this 5th edition is notable for the way Dr. Otto outlines just what steps physicians should take when echo results prove inconclusive. As the Textbook of Clinical Echocardiography demonstrates, the speed at which a clinician applies echocardiography can mean the difference between negative or positive patient outcomes. Thus, doctors at all levels of the spectrum would be well-served to become intimately familiar with the echocardiographic process – this process that is both cost-effective and cutting edge, deserving of a place at the forefront of the diagnostic landscape.

Of Related Interest

VALVULAR HEART DISEASE: A COMPANION TO BRAUNWALD’S HEART DISEASE. 4th Edition. Catherine Otto. Robert Bonow. Saunders.

Catherine Otto is a renowned expert on the nuances of valvular abnormalities, and this volume (co-written with Dr. Robert Bonow) serves as a companion to Braunwald’s Heart Disease, surveying the most recent clinical advances in diagnosis and treatment of vavle problems. The new edition is chock full of important information that physicians will need to have at hand in order to competently treat a component of heart disease that will become all the more prevalent given the aging population. New chapters offer a 3-dimensional review of the aortic and mitral valves; a review of genetic risk factors that increase the likelihood of calcified valve disease; how to assess risk for patients facing valve replacement surgery; image-guided trans-catheter valve treatments; and, most importantly, a discussion of how to know it’s the right time to recommend valve replacement surgery to an ailing patient. Otto and Bonow’s treatise will prove indispensable to cardiologists, internists and primary care providers as it brings the broad-mindedness of the classroom/research lab to the clinical setting.

Order from booksmd.com or go to us.elsevierhealth.com.

by John Aiello

FIELD GUIDE TO WILDERNESS MEDICINE. 4th Edition. Paul S. Auerbach. Benjamin Constance. Luanne Freer. Howard Donner. Eric Weiss. Elsevier.

If you hike, hunt, ski, bicycle or venture into the woods for any reason, you should not be without this book; quite simply, its contents, can save your life if you are ever presented with a sudden and unforeseen medical emergency.

Here, Auerbach (Stanford University Medical Center) and co-authors have created a go-to resource that outlines how to survive if you cannot get immediate medical aid. Topics of coverage include how to improvise your way through emergencies using random materials at your disposable; how to fashion make-shift litters/carriers; aeromedical transport; aspects of disaster medicine; managing sudden foot problems; instituting pain-management measures; surviving allergic reactions; managing shock; and confronting the life-threatening emergency. Brilliantly devised appendencies present myriad data, including a vital summary of essential supplies that must accompany any outdoors-man when he takes to the timber.

Field Guide To Wilderness Medicine is not only noted for the depth of information it contains, but also for the way that it conveys it: The authors are absolute masters at the step-by-step explanation and they are able to succinctly and incisively get key points across without ever reducing the treatise to ‘a stream of lectures.’

As good writers know, it’s one thing to present material, and it’s an entirely different thing to be heard. In turn, Auerbach and co-writers realize that they are dealing with a life-and-death proposition here and they know that it is imperative that the reader absorb what they are being told. The fact that Field Guide To Wilderness Medicine succeeds on this plane means that lives will be saved down every step of the trail.

The Electric Review’s outdoor pick of the year.

by John Aiello

BREAST IMAGING: THE REQUISITES. Second Edition. Debra Ikeda. Mosby/Elsevier.

New text by Debra Ikeda (Associate Professor Of Radiology at Stanford University) clearly outlines the basics on how to conduct and interpret diagnostic breast images. Ikeda’s study is truly in depth, as it covers the whole topic through illustration and careful discussion. The text includes coverage of the technology used to record images of the breast and investigation of the latest equipment used by radiologists, plus comprehensive dissertation on how to distinguish between various breast abnormalities (cancer masses, calcifications, etc.). Medical professionals will also be presented information on how to approach cancer (from diagnosis of tumor through the treatment phase). Although the natural audience for this text is Radiology Residents (and practicing Radiologists), it extends well beyond these boundaries: internists, all women’s health practitioners and primary care physicians will be well-served by Ikeda’s research, since the threat of breast cancer is one of the primary reasons many women under age fifty seek health counsel. As Breast Imaging reminds us — the key to treatment of breast tumors is in early detection and in the ability of the radiologist to recognize potential problems. To this end, Ikeda offers vital direction.

Recommended as a teaching text in radiology programs; in addition highly recommended to Health Science libraries as a reference.

by John Aiello

ATLAS OF AESTHETIC FACE AND NECK SURGERY. Gregory LaTrenta. M.D. W.B. Saunders.

This atlas provides a detailed over view of how surgeons should approach procedures of the head and neck. During a time when elective plastic surgeries are becoming more and more common place, this manual illuminates how the physician can best approach these sometimes difficult cases. Moreover, Face and Neck strives to look beyond the instant of knife cutting skin; instead, it expertly guides the surgeon on ways to approach and manage the complicated proposal of invading the delicate tissues that comprise the human face, neck and eye.

What’s best about this atlas is the way LaTrenta presents his material: well-organized chapters come complete with concluding summaries that offer the physician clearly delineated reference points. Information is further augmented by full-color illustrations that demonstrate how procedures are performed (rather than merely “lecturing” on paper). This aspect of Face and Neck is quite important because it fosters an immediate interaction between writer and reader – an in depth “hands on” demonstration of the various approaches to facial and head surgeries.

This book is written (and recommended) for the practicing plastic surgeon and for other experts dealing with treatment of the head and face. It would also prove useful to Health Science libraries as a general reference text. However, because the book is so specific, it is not recommended as a general classroom text: these outlines presuppose the reader has some mastery of a subject matter which goes beyond the skill level of the medical student.

PATHOLOGY OF THE OVARY. Jaime Prat. Saunders.

This text by Dr. Prat (Chairman of Pathology University of Barcelona) is unique in both scope and construction — a manual built for use by the practicing pathologist in the course of patient evaluation, it outlines the anatomy and pathology of the ovary in complete terms.

Pathology begins by surveying the basics of the ovary — including anatomy and histology. From here, we move into a detailed analysis of the diseases that most commonly strike this region of the body. Well-detailed exploration of all forms of malignancy found in the ovarian system is presented, including discussion of the general features of ovarian cancers (and hereditary factorswhich also influence predisposition to the disease). In addition, readers will find outstanding chapters on Steroid Cell tumors and various Endocrine Syndromes as related to the incidence of ovarian cancer. Over 500 color plates come together to provide quick diagnostic reference points for the clinician, further assisting in swift diagnosis.

The key element to this text is in the fact that it has been written with a keen and practical eye – with an eye focused on the way that pathologists think and work, the information is presented so as to allow it to be accessed in the course of the treatment room. In short, Pathology is not reserved for research or theoretical discussion, but instead, it is also at home in the hands of the doctor who is in the midst of trying to diagnose a patient who presents with ovarian abnormalities.

Prat, known throughout the world as a leading voice on the subject, wrote this text alone and without co-authors. Accordingly, he achieves a continuity in style and presentation here that is sometimes lacking in other medical science texts. It is this trait (coupled with the fact that the book will beimmediately meaningful to the practicing physician) which makes Pathology the authoritative reference in the field.

Recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Further recommended to all Gynecologists and Gynecologic Pathologists.

THE SHOULDER. Charles A. Rockwood Jr. Frederick A. Matsen III. Michael A. Wirth. Steven B. Lippitt. Saunders.

This text marks the primary reference available to the medical community on afflictions of the shoulder, collecting the work of 60 authorities in the field and examining the topic in full detail.

The text begins with an over-view of the anatomy of the shoulder (both gross and developmental). From here, the authors move through exploration of how clinicians can most effectively examine and diagnose patients. A complete discussion of the primary problems that surface during examination is included, with fine chapters on rotator cuff injuries, fractures of the clavicle, fractures of the scapula and nerve abnormalities. Finally, the reader will note that material on tumors and related malignant conditions common to the region has also been included – giving the physician a complete summary of everything that is likely to be encountered in this area of the body. In addition, discussion on all treatment options presently available to the patient is provided.

This third edition contains the latest data available to the clinician regarding both diagnosis and treatment. The authors have done a splendid job in chronicling their subject, directing their audience on every aspect of the shoulder practice:

Employing a comprehensive approach in their style, The Shoulder presents information on anatomy, physical examination, x-ray examination, primary symptoms/causes of disease, as well as the most up-to-date treatment options available. And it is here that the meat of the text is realized: Rockwood (Department of Orthopaedics, University of Texas Health Science Center) and co-authors have done an excellent job in discussing how to proceed with treatment according to the individual needs of the patient.

Cutting edge data on arthroscopic procedures establish the far-reaching advancements that have taken place in the field, and further evidence how this area of medicine has evolved. Obviously, the way that physicians evaluate and treat disorders of the shoulder has changed drastically during the last decade, and this selection gathers the most relevant analysis from the top scholars in the field in one place. In light of this fact, The Shoulder is likely to be the only reference text physicians will use on a daily basis in the course of their practice.

Recommended to all health Science libraries as a general reference text in the area of orthopedics. Further recommended as an in-office reference for all orthopedic specialists reflecting the most current research on the subject. Would also prove useful for sports medicine specialists and physical therapists who work with patients suffering from shoulder injury/disease.

DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS FOR PHYSICAL THERAPISTS. Screening for Diagnosis. Catherine C. Goodman. Teresa Kelly Snyder. Saunders.

Goodman (University of Montana) and Snyder (Montana State University) are leaders in the study and implementation of physical therapy regimens as a component to an overall treatment plan for the patient. However, this text goes deeper, dedicating itself to teaching Physical Therapists (PTs) “how to screen for medical disease [in order] to make an informed diagnosis.” Many times, Physical Therapists will be treating patients who are not making sufficient progress toward recovery. It is at this point that the PT should begin to assess whether or not the patient has some hidden neuromuscular or musculoskeletal problem or an organ-related disease which is exacerbating their condition. Here, Goodman and Snyder do an outstanding job of teaching PT clinicians and their staffs that the screening process of the patient is the most important step towards properly diagnosing (and ultimately treating) the sick and injured. Differential Diagnosis provides a step-by-step roadmap (as affirmed by the American Physical Therapy Association) meant to guide the PT through patient examination/evaluation. Topics of coverage include the patient interview; keys to physical assessment; keys to differentiating between different kinds of pain; screening for various types of disease including cardiovascular conditions and Endocrine/Metabolic disease; screening for neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions; and screening for various cancer-related abnormalities. The best element of this text is found in the way it teaches the PT to pay careful attention to each aspect of the physical assessment. Often, it’s this examination (coupled with the patient interview) that allows the PT vital insight into hidden particles of information that can help pin-point a diagnosis. In Differential Diagnosis, Goodman and Snyder teach the PT to carefully weigh risk factors and patient histories against symptoms before any treatment plan is created (with an assessment as to whether the patient requires referral for specialty care made concurrently).

Recommended as an in-office reference for all Physical Therapy clinicians and their staffs. Simply, regular review of the information contained in this handbook can help to provide more effective care, heading off potential emergencies before they can jeopardize the well-being of the patient.

by John Aiello

SKELETAL TRAUMA. 3rd Edition: Basic Science, Management, and Reconstruction. In 2 Volumes. Bruce D. Browner. Jesse B. Jupiter. Alan M. Levine and Peter G. Trafton. Saunders.

In keeping with Campbell’s Operative, Skeletal focuses on advancements in treatment of bone injury. Here, the authors have come up with the definitive specialty text that outlines in comprehensive detail the matters of skeletal trauma. As noted, the focus here is comprehensive, and information on myriad conditions is presented, including cutting-edge material on trauma reconstruction, infection, and management of limb-length discrepancies. 93 contributing writers look into the skeleton of the human body with an eye towards treating common and not-so-common problems. Accordingly, there is a wealth of information on how to confront foot injuries, as well as analysis on total hip-replacement and direction on deformity correction. In light of the myriad subject matter collected here, this text will prove valuable to the many layers of the medical community who routinely encounter skeletal trauma – from Radiologists and Emergency Room personnel to Orthopedic Surgeons (and Physical Therapists responsible for post-op care).

SHOULDER ARTHROSCOPY. Gary M Gartsman. Saunders.

Like the Rockwood title reviewed above, Gartsman (University of Texas Health Science Center) has developed a text that covers the burgeoning arena of arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder in bright detail. Gartsman, widely considered an expert in the field, offers analysis of both complex and simple procedures, with especially relevant material on rotator cuff injuries, as well as treatment options for osteoarthritis (a huge problem in many female geriatric patients). Nearly 1,000 images augment Gartsman’s treatise — offering the surgeon a visual demonstration as he makes his way through the material. Additionally, the video portion of the CD-ROM provides a step-by-step road map advising the surgeon on how to proceed through an arthroscopic procedure. A wealth of information is presented in a clear and practical package, making this required reading for all Orthopedic Surgeons who treat afflictions of the shoulder.

Each selection is recommended to health Science libraries for their value as general reference texts. Further recommended asin-office references for all orthopedic specialists reflecting the most current research on the subject. Would also prove useful for sports medicine specialists and physical therapists who work with patients suffering from skeletal injury/disease. Finally, recommended to Emergency Room physicians for relevant direction on assessing and treating traumatic injuries of the human skeleton.

GRAY’S ANATOMY E-DITION. The Anatomical Basis Of The Clinical Practice. 39th Edition. Edited by Susan Standring. Churchill-Livingstone/Elsevier.

There is a reason this text has been around for nearly 150 years — it is simply the best at what it does – surveying the scope of the human anatomy so that the health care community can use it as a resource in the daily course of patient treatment.

Gray’s offers so much to its audience that it is impossible for a reviewer to touch on all its significant attributes. However, wrapped up here in its brand new format, the design has been updated to better reflect how doctors practice medicine. The idea here is practicality, and E-Edition is organized according to body region rather than organ system, making it easier for physicians to use in the examining room. This 39th edition is also careful to reflect the changing course of medicine, with inclusion of data on the inner ear, pelvic floor and endoscopic imaging (among so many other relatively new interests of concentration).

To last for a century and a half, you have to be very good at what you do. And that’s why we have to recommend Gray’s – it is abundantly good at everything it does. And it’s best selling point is that it is bold enough to keep up with the times. This E-Edition (the package contains the text, plus the CD-ROM, plus the on-line access) is quite a bold undertaking – bringing Gray’s amazing breadth of knowledge to the age of technology.

Remember, the many generations that grew up on Gray’s were use to seeing it in its stodgy book form, unaccustomed to seeing it spruced up on computer disk, unaccustomed to seeing the text come springing to electronic life. But by issuing this text in a companion electronic edition, Elsevier has given doctors the chance to obtain continuing web site updates on the subject matter in the comfort of their own offices. Further, these doctors can also use the CD-ROM in conjunction with the text to gain even more from the elaborate images/illustrations. Obviously, our new generation of physicians who have grown up on computers will relish the E-Edition because it has kept up with the way medicine is moving throughthe 21st century.

Even though its 150 years old, Gray’s has been careful to stay current with the changes in medicine, maintaining its place as the elder master of every doctor’s medical library.

Recommended to all physicians as an in-office reference manual. Recommended as a class text in all anatomy courses at both the medical schooland general college level. Recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. The best anatomy text for the last century.

PROBLEM-BASED ANATOMY. Craig A. Canby. Saunders.

Anatomy is a basic prerequisite to all pre-med programs, as well as a requirement for all nursing and health-related professions. Anatomy and Physiology courses are simply the cornerstone of these fields, with students requiring a complete mastery of this material in order to move on to more advanced courses. Here, Canby (Des Moines University) has created a problem-based manual leading the student through multiple layers of anatomical data byway of a ‘case study’ model. Instead of ‘lecturing’ his readers, Canby instead thrusts us to the core of the material and forces an interaction with the clinical applications of the discipline: This ‘hands-on’ approach meant to focus the student’s attention on the ways that one human organ system builds on the next, forming a synchronized system of cells and vessels which keep the heart and brain fed with blood. In his problem-based approach, Canby brings students to the deep significance of our anatomical structure by helping them to examine its substructures or subspecialties. Topic coverage includes chapters on the back; thorax; abdomen; pelvis/perineum; lower limb/upper limb; and head/neck, with specific diseases/conditions discussed as part of the exploration of each region. Readers will find Canby’s style immediately effective, as he had built a platform on which to test the student’s ability to apply their understanding of anatomy to the clinical ‘stage’ of the examination room. Noted for its clarity, organization and illustrations which come together seamlessly, helping students with both comprehension and retention of complicated material.

Recommended as a primary course text in Anatomy courses in pre-med programs. Further recommended to instructors as a secondary classroom manual in all nursing programs: Canby’s analysis provides a vital roadmap guiding readers through the intricacies of human construction.

POCKET ESSENTIALS OF CLINICAL MEDICINE. 4^th Edition. Anne Ballinger. Stephen Patchett. Series Editors: Parveen Kumar and Michael Clark. Saunders. 

This book serves as handy pocket-size reference that has been created for use by health care professionals practicing outside the United States. Basically, Pocket Essentials is a truncated version of Kumar and Clark’s Clinical Medicine meant to be carried by the doctor or advanced medical student and used in the direct treatment of patients. Topics of coverage are vast and feature well-delineated summaries of medical abbreviations and key terms, in addition to analysis of major organ systems, including: Infectious diseases; Gastroenterology and nutrition; the liver and biliary tract; hematology;  rheumatology; renal disease; cardiovascular disease; respiratory diseases; and intensive care medicine (among others). Readers should also take note of myriad ‘extras’ (such as exam questions and emergency boxes) which test retention and mastery of the material. In sum, Pocket Essentials stands out for its clarity and comprehensive tone: Even though designed as a quick-hitting ‘portable reference,’ this book nonetheless is able to give the physician a working knowledge of key areas of concentration as it maps its way through the grand labyrinth of the human body.

Even though directed to readers outside of the county, United States medical students will also benefit from this manual which serves as both a tidy refresher course and pocket-sized version of Kumar and Clark’s authoritative treatise on clinical medicine.

by John Aiello

RADIOLOGY BUSINESS PRACTICE. How to Succeed. David M. Yousem. Norman J. Beauchamp. Saunders.

The effective practice of medicine is predicated upon the work of skilled radiologists who serve as the ‘private investigators’ of the health care field – peering through walls of skin to unlock the mysteries of illness. However, before you can start interpreting diagnostic images as radiologist, you must first design a business plan that offers you a competitive chance at success. Accordingly, in this text, Yousem and Beauchamp offer salient advice on how to open a radiology practice and how to make the proper decisions to ensure both profitability and excellence. In Radiology Business Practice, readers are presented with a vast amount of information, with topics of coverage that include how to properly assess what equipment you need; how to communicate and relate to manufacturers; ways to explore the question of whether to buy or lease; how to anticipate costs and account for depreciation; and how to construct your business plan in order to deal with fundamental issues such as security, file storage and archiving. Here, the authors have drafted a practical and user-friendly text that delivers information in a direct ‘no-frills’ package. Thus, readers are given the data they need in a clear and concrete form that allows fledgling radiologists to begin to consider the proper business questions – the idea here is to make the right financial decisions at the right times to give your practice the best chance at survival.

Radiology Business Practice is a both a practical and well-written manual that is required reading for all advanced radiology students and for recent graduates of radiology programs about to launch a practice. Simply, learning the information that’s contained in these pages might make the difference between success and bankruptcy.

by John Aiello

Elsevier Health Science

ENDOCRINE PATHOLOGY. A Volume in Foundations in Diagnostic Pathology Series. Lester D. R. Thompson. Churchill Livingstone.

The Endocrine System is literally one of the foundations of the body, regulating myriad processes, insuring internal balance for the rest of the human organ systems. In medicine, its importance cannot be over-emphasized. Here, Thomson (Head and Neck Pathology Division, Department of Pathology, Southern California Permanente Medical Group) has authored a primary reference tool that covers the basic tenants of its topic in clearly-developed terms. After a short preface and a foreword, Thomson moves into the core material of Endocrine Pathology. Chapter topics include Diseases of the Larynx, Hypopharynx and Trachea; Diseases of the Nasal Cavity, Paranasal Sinuses and Nasopharynx (including non-neoplastic lesions, benign neoplasms and malignant neoplasms); Diseases of the Oral Cavity and Oropharynx;; Diseases of the Salivary Glands; Diseases of the Ear and Temporal Bone; Diseases of the Gnathic Bones; Diseases of the Neck; Diseases of the Thyroid Gland; Diseases of the Parathyroid Glands; Diseases of the Adrenal Gland; Diseases of the Pituitary Gland; and Diseases of the Paraganglia System. Thomson is a fine science writer with a keen understanding of his subject, and he carefully uses a combination of in-text analysis and illustrations to paint a complete picture of how the physician and the pathologist can effectively diagnose abnormalities within this delicate labyrinth of inter-connected cellular walls. Readers will note that Thomson carefully reviews normal pathological findings before dissecting abnormal results as a means to show that changes within the system can sometimes present themselves in subtle ways, thus demanding that the pathologist be able to carefully search for semi-hidden patterns of change.

This text is recommended to instructors teaching in advanced Endocrinology programs, as it would make a supreme primary course text for students embarking on specialty study in this area. Further recommended to pathologists, radiologists, internists and lab researchers dedicated to treating patients with Endocrine abnormalities. Noted for its lucid and erudite examination of an ever-evolving area of medicine.

by John Aiello

CLINICAL MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (E-DITION). 3rd Edition – Text with Continually Updated Online Reference & in three volumes. Robert R. Edelman. John R. Hesselink. Michael B. Zlatkin. John V. Crues. Saunders.

Now in its third edition, Clinical Magnetic provides a crisp and intricate exploration of all applicable technology related to magnetic resonance imaging of myriad regions of the human body, including data on the heart, brain, head & neck, spine, and musculoskeletal system. Readers should note that this is in no way some ‘hardly revised edition.’ To the contrary, nearly 75% of the content is new to this volume, representing the most up-to-date research in this foundational point of diagnostic medicine. In addition, more than 4,700 illustrations serve to assist the audience by actually presenting a picture of the information they’ve just read, thus promoting an avenue to long-term retention. Volume 1 of Clinical Magnetic covers the physics, instrumentation and advanced techniques of the subject, including history and basic principles; image optimization; instrumentation; pulse sequence design; and molecular imaging. Subsequent volumes cover specific regions and organ systems. The material on the heart is especially impressive, with analysis of Magnetic Resonance Angiography of the body, in addition to Magnetic Resonance Venography of the body, as well as in depth discussion of Myocardial Perfusion, Myocardial Viability and valvular heart disease. Clinical Magnetic is notable for providing the up-to-date discussion of myriad data, including diffusion imaging, MR-guided interventions, molecular imaging, functional MRI, and MR angiography (further enhancing these ‘lectures’ by offering salient analysis of the clinical applications of MRI). Moreover, the companion website pours the contents of this book into the ‘brain’ of your PC, offering readers immediate access from the comfort of their laptops – all one has to have is the ability to connect to the internet. Simply, this is the authoritative text in the field of magnetic resonance imaging – -a one-stop resource that covers its topic in both broad and detailed terms. Vast. Erudite. Insightful. Impeccably researched. Insofar as scientific references, this books sets the bar at the apex, and it will take a mighty effort for another reference to come close to what Clinical Magnetic accomplishes.

Recommended to all radiologists who perform magnetic resonance imaging or evaluate MRI test results – recommended as in-office resource that can greatly enhance patient treatment. Hospital radiology departments both big and small should not be without this one.

by John Aiello

Also of Note

PHYSIOLOGY. 3rd Edition; with Student Consult Access. Linda S. Costanzo. Saunders.

This text by Linda Costanzo (Professor of Physiology, Virginia Commonwealth University) is an important addition to the canon of medical literature as it investigates human Physiology at both the organ and cellular level. More than anything, what this manual does is offer the primary aspects of Physiology in a clearly defined manner that stresses long-term retention for the student.

Costanzo takes a basic approach to the construction of Physiology, presenting the reader with a firm overview of the body’s cellular labyrinth before moving into the Physiology of particular organ systems (neurological; cardiovascular; respiratory; renal, gastrointestinal; endocrine; reproductive).

In addition. Costanzo devotes an entire chapter to analysis of the dynamics of acid-base Physiology, which often can be a trouble-point for students. Accordingly, inclusion of this information rounds out the face of this text in complete terms, cutting to the core of a topic area that tends to lose many student-readers in its multiple complexities.

Obviously, Costanzo’s background as a veteran instructor has instinctively allowed her to create a book that will satisfy the needs of a broad-based audience:

“Part of the impetus in doing this book was the desire to deepen my own understanding – in writing about physiology, I came to learn it better,” notes the author. “The other impetus was in that basic human drive to be useful and to do something new. As a writer, I wanted to build a teaching resource that would be immediately accessible to the student. I based the format on my own learning and teaching experiences – taking care to appreciate what worked for me in the past and what didn’t work so well. The goal was to show students the hierarchy of the subject and then to demonstrate the links between concepts in a logical way. I’ve found that once students see the structure of a subject, they truly begin to own it.”

And that just what makes Physiology noteworthy – its accessibility: The tone clear-eyed and straight-forward gives students the information they need in a well-defined and ordered format (as the author combines illustrations with point-by-point explanation in order to draw a complete picture of each topic for the reader). Chapters conclude with succinct summaries which bring students back to key areas of reference (review questions augment these chapter summaries and test the reader’s comprehension of the most relevant data).

Finally, the Clinical Physiology Case Studies presented serve to confront students with patient capsules, confronting young doctors with the myriad forms of “classic disorders” as a means to teach them how to take information from the lecture hall and apply it directly to the examination table.

“I think the key to any textbook is for the author to be courageous – the courage to leave out extraneous details; the courage to show one’s own enthusiasm for the material; and even the courage to point out where the thread of logic may break down,” remarks Costanzo. “Textbook authors have an obligation to insure that students do not feel intimidated. The challenge is to break down and organize the material in a way that brings the student to this ordered way of thinking.”

Indeed, Costanzo’s real gift is to be able to write medicine in a way that allows it to transfer to the classroom with seamless efficiency. Insofar as foundational Physiology texts go, this one sets the standard in scope and style.

Recommended as either a primary or supporting class text in courses which survey basic human Physiology. In addition, it would prove to be a useful study tool for student-doctors preparing for the USMLE. Finally, recommended to Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

THE OSLER MEDICAL HANDBOOK – 2nd Edition. Handbook with BONUS Pocket Consult Handheld Software. By Johns Hopkins Hospital: Jonathan Paul Piccini, MD; Fellow. Kent R. Nilsson, MD; Fellow. Saunders.

This handbook comes to us having been written by experts at Johns Hopkins Hospital, and it focuses on meeting the challenges posed by the daily practice of medicine. Accordingly, Osler’s covers the full spectrum of diseases that afflict the design of the human body, discussing in detail how the medical specialist should approach diagnosis (a carefully orchestrated step-by-step process of testing, observation and evaluation culminating in treatment).

In creating this comprehensive manual, the authors cover myriad organ systems, with acute analysis of Cardiac disorders; Dermatologic issues; diseases of the Gastrointestinal tract; Hematology; and Oncologic emergencies requiring immediate intervention by the hand of the physician. This edition is further noted for the new information it shares, as the authors have included chapters on end-stage liver disease, hematologic malignancies, biotterrorism, tuberculosis, Glomerular Disease and bone marrow failure (the delineation of each providing keys to the most recent thinking on patient care as it relates to these subject areas).

In addition, the completely revamped section on Critical Care Medicine gives both Emergency Room and ICU personnel a refresher course in new approaches to managing the sickest patients (to this end, readers will find new perspective on ventilation therapies — an extremely important topic given the public’s increased awareness of quality of life issues in the wake of the Terri Schiavo controversy).

Basically, a medical text is deemed worthy of widespread use when it is able to convey cutting-edge data in a clear and cogent manner. And that’s just what the authors and editors of Osler’s have done with this manual — building an in-office reference that outlines the most common diseases and disorders the clinician is likely to encounter in daily practice.

As Osler’s infers with its carefully ordered analysis of human health, the best doctors know that no case is routine and that no diagnosis is easy. To the contrary, sound patient care takes dedication and a mastering of the fundamentals of the scientific process, this never-ending process of testing and assessment that allows the clinician to alleviate patient suffering. In accordance with this sacred mission, The Osler Medical Handbook is an artful resource with long-lasting value.

Recommended as an in-office reference for all Emergency Room Personnel (as well as Internists and Primary Care Physicians). Also, medical students would be well-served to refer to this manual while on rotation through hospital training programs — Osler’s is meant to serve as a life-long reference that can provide direction to any doctor on the ‘front-lines.’

FUNDAMENTALS OF BODY CT, 3rd Edition. W. Richard Webb. William E. Brant. Nancy Major. Saunders.

Refinement of Computed Tomography (CT) has revolutionized approaches to diagnostic medicine during the past 30 years, as Radiologists working in concert with physicians can literally see through the myriad layers of the body to assess flaws in function.

CT scans use thin beams of light which rotate around the patient to create an image of the body. Once that image is complete, it is then interpreted — and enhanced — by computer, thus allowing for multi-dimensional (and cross-sectioned) investigation of various regions of the human anatomy. Accordingly, CT scans are vital for in depth assessment as they give the physician a more complete view of the body as a whole.

Fundamentals of Body by Richard Webb (University of California, San Francisco), William Brant (University of Virginia) and Nancy Major (Duke University Medical Center) is noted throughout the annals of medicine for its clean “no-frills” delineation of how to implement CT scans and then interpret the nuances of the results.

Now in its third edition, the text is noteworthy for its organization and formatting, as the authors have gone to great lengths to strip away extraneous and convoluted analysis, building their study from a foundational perspective. As if teaching a class on paper, Webb and his co-writers speak in a crisp and concrete manner that is delivered in a lecture-like style. Topics covered are vast, including discussion of recent development of CT technique, exploration of “multislice” CT scans to assist in diagnosis of chest and abdominal problems, as well as a detailed breakdown of ways 3D CT agiography can be used to peer into a blood vessel in order to examine its delicate intricacies.

The x-ray department’s role in the practice of medicine cannot be understated, for the Radiologist remains at the center of the diagnostic process, allowing the physician to see the full perimeters of an abnormality and then move toward the best treatment for an individual patient. Fundamentals of Body is an important text that provides a record of the latest developments in the field, examining the topic from a multitude of perspectives (when information on how to properly perform a CT procedure merges into how physicians should approach interpretation of test results a complete picture of the discipline is ultimately created for the reader).

In the end, Webb and his co-witers present their readers with a book that says, quite clearly, that the long-term health of the patient is just as dependent on the skill of the Radiologist as it is on the Pharmacist’s dispensary.

Although the first recommendation for this title would naturally be as a front-line class text in any course analyzing the nuances of Computed Tomography, it nonetheless would also prove useful to practicing Radiologists as an in-office manual, offering comment on the latest developments in this ever-evolving field.

SMITH’S RECOGNIZABLE PATTERNS OF HUMAN MALFORMATION. Sixth Edition. Kenneth Lyons Jones. Saunders.

This text offers a definitive analysis of the patterns of human malformation that originate during the genesis of the fetus. Now in its sixth edition and richly layered in detail, Smith’s Recognizable Patterns is applauded throughout the medical community for its ability to cover its topic in relevant and broad-reaching terms.

Dr. Jones (University of California, San Diego) is a leading expert in the field, and his work with this text will serve generations of physicians to come as they look to unlock the mysteries of genetics and the causes of malformation.

Here, Dr. Jones tackles the topic of birth defects from a classic academic perspective, creating a definitive resource along the way. Accordingly, Dr. Jones offers a complete summary of various Chromosomal Abnormality Syndromes, moving seamlessly from one aspect of the topic to the next, expanding on the data with clear clinical precision.

Among the wealth of information presented, Dr. Jones writes on several common disorders (Short Syndrome; C Syndrome; Lenz Microphthalmia Syndrome; Torriello-Carey Syndrome; Mowat-Wilson Syndrome) as a means to connect thepracticing physician with the latest thinking on the reasons why the normal stages of development come to be altered. The idea here is to educate the clinician so that he absorbs the data in a way that will allow him to help parents cope with the disturbing reality of having to raise a child with birth defects.

Dr. Jones’ vast experience as a physician and professor has enabled him to align the book in a way that will be immediately relevant to other doctors — with chapters designed to thoroughly describe a given abnormality in terms of its history and etiology in quick and efficient detail. From here, expert use of photographs and illustrations allow the reader to see the abnormality in multiple dimensions so that complete understanding can be attained.

As with other areas of medical research, a scientist must be able to see into the molecular basis of a given disease before precise diagnosis and treatment can ever take place. To this end, Dr. Jones has written a manual that inspires its reader to see beyond the skin to the platform of the cell, writing through the subject of human malformation so as to peel the mystery away from this oft-misunderstood area of study.

Recommended to instructors teaching courses on Genetics, Dysmorphology and Teratology. In addition, the manual would prove useful to physicians who treat patients with birth defects and/or provide counsel to parents. Finally, the text is indispensable to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

WALL & MELZACK’S TEXTBOOK OF PAIN. 5th Edition. Stephen McMahon. Martin Koltzenburg. Churchill Livingstone.

Pain Management Centers are now common place at many urban Centers, as health care providers attempt to alleviate suffering through a variety of medications and dedicated treatments.

In this text, McMahon (Center for Neuroscience Research, King’s College, London) and Koltzenburg (Institute of Child Health/Institute of Neurology, University College, London) offer the definitive resource on all aspects of the pain process — including analysis of both neurophysiological and psychological perspectives as related to the “pain syndrome.”

In addition to dissecting the neurological basis of pain, the authors carefully summarize treatment options through examination of various pharmacological, surgical, electrostimulative, physiotherapeutic, and psychological alternatives.

In this treatise, McMahon and Koltzenburg have done a masterful job in editing contributions from the leading researchers in the field in order to construct a one-stop manual that is pertinent to instructors, practicing physicians and advanced students on the threshold of exploration into the palliative side of patient care.

Readers of Wall & Melzack will take part in a comprehensive course focused on the phenomenon of pain. High-lights of the revised edition must include mention of the material on medications, as recent research has given rise to the use of a mixed variety of drugs (cannabinoids, antidepressants, muscle relaxants, opioids) in order to lessen the severity of chronic pain patterns. Furthermore, the authors are careful not to side-step the possibility of patient addiction to such narcotics (a problem that is seen all too frequently now in the athletic and entertainment worlds). Also notable is the chapter on headaches (which, along with back/spinal pain complaints, account for millions of doctor visits every year).

Obviously, the subject of pain is paramount to the practice of medicine, since it often the primary reason the patient seeks medical attention in the first place. Here, the authors examine the subject from both physiological and psychological perspectives in an effort to lead physicians to the understanding that this is a complicated matter that requires the medical provider to search for individualized treatments.

Flawlessly written and impeccably researched, with smart use of illustrations to evidence key areas of focus. The best book on the topic we’ve seen, hands down.

Recommended to all pain management specialists for its exhaustive coverage of the subject. Also useful to Anesthesiologists, Neurologists and Sports Medicine specialists (physicians and therapists). Further recommended as a teaching text in any course that delves into ways that the physician should address both acute and chronic pain complaints. Finally, recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

GREEN’S OPERATIVE HAND SURGERY. 5th edition. David P. Green. Robert N. Hotchkiss. William C. Pederson. Scott W. Wolfe. Churchill Livingstone.

Green’s is noted as the absolute authority in terms of detailing the intricacies of hand surgery. Now in its 5th edition, Green’s comes to us completely revised from earlier versions, with updated information that’s been framed in a somewhat different face — the print text bolstered by multimedia capabilities that allow the reader to access a continuously updated website for information on the most recent developments in the discipline.

Green’s is the preferred reference in the field because of the depth of reportage by a long list of expert contributors. The text begins with an overview of the general principles of surgery before moving into specific analysis of this region of the body. Discussion includes the hand (infections, Dupuytren’s Contracture, tendon injury, nails, arthritis); the wrist (carpal instability, Distal Radioulnar Joint, wrist Arthroscopy); elbow and forearm; the nerve system (Comprehensive Neuropathies, Radial Nerve Palsy, repairs and grafting, Cerebral Palsy); congenital disorders; bone and tissue reconstruction; and an overview of disorders related to the upper extremity.

Obviously, this text completely exhausts its subject by presenting the latest perspectives on surgical technique and research as related to the human hand. What sets Green’s apart is its ability to provide a definitive record of all disorders which strike this region. In addition to the routine cases that physicians are likely to see, Green (University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio) and his co-authors also address more complicated reconstruction, deformity and neurological issues that tend to be seen somewhat less frequently.

Further to the comprehensive discussion of the hand and its sub-systems, Green has added a series of new chapters on the elbow and forearm (including analysis of Arthroscopy and Arthoplasty procedures as related to the elbow). Additionally, there is a highly refined section on the wrist (which has become an area of increasing concern among Orthopedic specialists who are now seeing an influx of patients with carpal instability issues caused by repetitive stress and computer over-use).

In the end, Green’s real value is cloaked in its authors’ ability to clearly define each hand-related disorder as it escorts the reader into deeper exploration of these subjects. Unlike those typical “how to” references of yesteryear, this book addresses the core of each affliction along with all appropriate surgical-repair options, bringing the physician to a better overall understanding of the upper extremities.

Recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text: What makes this a vital selection to libraries is its multi-dimensional format: Inclusion of the CD-ROM means that reference data and abstracts can be accessed on the reader’s personal computer, greatly enhancing the ways this material can be used. Finally, the E-Edition (which requires at least a Windows 95 operating system or higher) is aimed at the practicing surgeon’s specific needs, as the continuously updated website allows the physician to augment the text with advances in research as they occur. Green’s is further recommended to all orthopedic surgeons whose practice area includes treatment of the hand, elbow or upper extremities. Finally, would prove to be a useful class text in courses focused on training surgeons for certification in the field.

TEXTBOOK OF MEDICAL PHYSIOLOGY. 11TH EDITION. Arthur C. Guyton, MD. John E. Hall, Ph.D. Saunders.

Now in its 11th edition, this world-respected textbook (often referred to by instructors as “Guyton and Hall”) has set the standard in physiology classrooms for decades. The 11th edition of Medical Physiology extends the standard of quality that began with the first installment of the text, and should immediately remind instructors, students and academic writers in all disciplines what a textbook should aspire to be.

Beginning with a full overview of physiology as it relates to each human organ system (and the practice of medicine), Guyton and Hall move into deep discussion of how organ systems are inter-related and entwined (creating the amazing labyrinth that is the human body).

The magnificent thing about Homo Sapiens is in their construction — each organ system functioning with independent precision as it merges seamlessly into the next system in the chain in order to create this multi-dimensional “body.” Accordingly, this text does an admirable job at bringing this symbiosis to life, utilizing a full-color format to help students more easily understand the subject matter. In addition to the analysis of medical physiology, the authors have taken the material one step further, actually applying these situations to a clinical stage so that the student-doctor can better link the principles of physiology to the practice of medicine.

Aside from the breadth of coverage afforded the reader by this text, the true “beauty” of this title is in its presentation: Clear and concise writing make the material instantly accessible to the young reader and allow for a more precise understanding of the human body.

It should not forgotten that medical students are often inundated by a never-ending parade of new vocabulary and foreign concepts — a confusing ‘mishmash’ of material that sometimes gets lost in the translation. To combat this trend, Guyton and Hall offer their readers an introduction to the study of physiology that is at once insightful and artful and inviting — inviting a deeper interest in the body as a whole.

Recommended to instructors of medical physiology for its crispness and easy accessibility. After 11 editions, this one sets the standard in the field. Also recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

ACCIDENT AND EMERGENCY RADIOLOGY. Nigel Raby. Laurence Berman. Gerald de Lacey. Saunders.

Like the subject of the previous review, this selection is written for the practicing health care professional to be used in the direct course of patient treatment. Accident and Emergency is focused on guiding emergency room personnel towards accurately accessing x-rays (and catching hidden conditions that often might be over-looked at first glance).

Now in its second edition (first released in 1995), this handy carry-size manual’s importance cannot be over-stated. Organized according to the radiological anatomy, Accident and Emergency covers all primary points of the body, including the skull, face, shoulder, spine, pelvis, leg and foot.

After moving through the basic principles of radiology (with well-presented data on how to detect a fracture), the reader is taken to each primary region of the body and given a step-by-step tour of ways to detect injury and then assess its severity (with direction on how to avoid common mistakes caused by misreading nuances in radiological studies).

In addition to the clear delineation of the subject matter and precise organization, readers will be further assisted by the “Key Points” and “Subtle Signs Not To Miss” boxes which summarize the most relevant information chapter-by-chapter — features that provide ER doctors with an extra point of reference as they attempt to accurately identify problems in kinetic environments.

Recommended to Radiologists and Emergency Room personnel as an in-hospital reference. The sample x-rays included within the chapters provide physicians with an added advantage as they serve to recreate real-life clinical situations.

Of Related Interest

INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY (A Survival Guide). Second Edition. David Kessel. Lain Robertson. Churchill Livingstone.

Radiologists might want to consider this text as a companion to the selection reviewed in the previous summary. While the Raby text is dedicated to assessing emergency-type radiological images, this manual is focused on how to proceed with invasive tests so that results can be obtained safely and accurately. Interventional Radiology provides important and detailed analysis of Angiography and Vascular Intervention – procedures that comprise some of the most common studies done in this realm.

Recommended as both an in-hospital reference and as a teaching text in courses which focus on this specialty-area of radiology.

MEDICINE. John Axford. Chris O’Callaghan. Blackwell Publishing.

Medicine marks a truly new and original concept in the world of Medical publishing: This is a book that has been partially formulated by medical students and junior doctors in collaboration with two distinguished physicians from the UK. The idea here is to offer students the information they need in a format that is conducive to the way in which they learn.

The result is a marvelous and in depth study of medicine. By melding science with clinical application, Axford and O’Callaghan begin to gradually introduce the student to the things they will encounter as doctors. Obviously, it’s not enough for a doctor to merely understand a concept, but instead, he must be able to take this understanding (of medicine) and apply it to the unique complexities of the human body:

“If you finish medical school without understanding the basics of medicine, then you will be in trouble. However, learning small print detail about a range of topics will seldom be of much use in your qualifying examinations or in clinical practise[…]The body of medical knowledge increases every day, but the capacity of the human brain does not. Therefore, we believe that it is essential to present medicine in a way that is comprehensive, but also concise and free of irrelevant details….”

(From the Introduction)

And this is exactly what the authors have produced: a text that is remarkably easy to use, promoting the ability of the student to retain what he is learning (rather than just remembering random facts in order to pass a certification exam). Axford and O’Callaghan have done a magnificent job in covering a broad range of material, writing in clear and vibrant prose – outlining data so as to facilitate deep understanding.

Topics covered include all the major organ systems, with consideration given to the basic structures and functions of each. From this point, the fledgling doctor is advised on how to address patient needs, with the importance of thorough clinical examination stressed (while the art of diagnosis and disease management are also made familiar to the student). Further, the”At a Glance” boxes allow students to immediately test their knowledge of a subject area – a feature that provides concrete direction on how they should be interpreting the course material.

As a textbook, Medicine is written for the way that the typical student approaches the classroom. Because of this, it is recommended as a teaching text/resource guide for the advanced medical student, resident and fellow. Also would be useful to the practicing physician as an in-office research tool to augment patient care.

MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES. Lee W. Riley. ASM Press.

A unique and revolutionary textbook, Molecular Epidemiology presents information on ways molecular biology can be used to confront the incidence and the spread of infectious disease.

The way that bacteria multiply and the ease with which infectious disease spreads has always been difficult for the health care researcher to understand. And with the new century comes a new set of challenges: SARS, HIV, the global threat of biological weapons as war tools. As the Anthrax scare in the autumn of 2001 proves, the country as a whole is susceptible to mass infection (and the death and destruction that such infection brings). Accordingly, this text has been written to show scientists how they might better approach unlocking the mysteries of how infectious organisms take over the community of a cell and then spread.

In short, Molecular Epidemiology sews together the basic concepts of epidemiology with the vocabulary of molecular biology, in turn melding these two specialties so that clinicians can more efficiently investigate disease. From this unique perspective, scientists with varied and distinct backgrounds have now been presented with a reference point from which they can begin their work. Stylistically, the book is written in a standard scientific format. First, various techniques of molecular biology are explored in detail. Once this foundation has been laid, the idea of disease is addressed, with an eye toward identifying and distinguishing the different ways that infectious organisms spread.

Recommended as a teaching text in the both the fields of molecular biology and epidemiology for its logic and clear organization. Would further be of value to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Would not be appropriate for the internist or primary care physician with an office practice, as this text looks at the spread of disease from a researcher’s point of view and is meant for the study of the subject matter from that perspective.

Roundtable Discussions

John Wiley At The Reference Table: Celebrating 200 Years of Excellence

As we have written many times, Wiley’s catalog shines among the stars of the academic publishing world. In light of this, the following books (rich and vital and varied) must be mentioned on our pages, since they serve to set the bar in their respective disciplines:

Quick Views On Wiley’s Best Research Texts

STRESS IN HEALTH AND DISEASE. Edited by Arvid Carlsson, Bengt B. Arnetz, and Rolf Ekman. John Wiley.

During the last two decades, the medical community has finally recognized the fact that stress has profound impact on the health of man. Previously, stress was often discounted and dismissed and not accepted as a real cause of breakdown in the health of the individual. But that line of thinking has changed. Here, the perspective of top experts in the field has been compiled, with pertinent discussion on different stressors and how they affect both cognitive and biological well-being. However, readers should note that this is not just a text that discusses its topic in secondary terms. Instead, the authors make a significant effort to provide ways the individual might mitigate stress – a tact meant to bring healthcare providers a step closer to offering practical counsel for their patients. This book is vital to physicians in the clinical setting and also to biological and psychiatric researchers looking to unlock the deep secrets of the human mind in order to understand its impact on the organ systems of the body.

HANDBOOK OF MENINGOCOCCAL DISEASE: INFECTION BIOLOGY, VACCINATION, CLINICAL MANAGEMENT. Edited by Matthias Frosch and Martin C. J. Maiden. John Wiley.

This book, edited by leading researchers Matthias Frosch and Martin Maiden, analyzes Meningococcal disease in comprehensive terms, presenting the latest data (as it relates to the onset/development of Meningococcal infection, management of symptoms by the physician, and the reliability of vaccination for this potentially fatal disease). Handbook of Meningococcal collects a vast amount of material. Highlights include chapters on new cutting-edge strategies in vaccine development; the genetics and epidemiology of Meningococcal disease; and aspects of immunobiology now vital to furthering research in the field. Given the threat that fledgling pathogens like SARS and Avian Flu present, the healthcare community’s ability to control Meningococcal disease and thwart mutations/variations of this phenomenon will be a key to preserving life should a widespread outbreak of ancillary infection occur. Accordingly, this handbook offers a starting point – a collection of the most expert analysis of the subject written in an impactive and concise style that facilitates deeper study. Appropriate not only for researchers and practicing infectious disease specialists/epidemiologists, but also for public health researchers and for graduate-level students who are preparing to enter this arm of healthcare-defense.

FUNDAMENTALS OF ECOGENETICS. Editors: Lucio G. Costa. David L. Eaton. Wiley-Liss.

This major new release from JohnWiley looks to tie together the threads that link the genetic make-up of the individual with his environment in hopes of better understanding how our surroundings might cause or instigate disease.

There has always been an ecogenetic focus within the scientific community as researchers have long sought to understand how passive elements within the environment (asbestos for example) can alter the molecular structure of a cell and then promote disease (as in lung cancer). However, in this text, Costa and Eaton have taken an incisive and comprehensive approach, building from basic concepts into the multi-layers of advanced study.

Fundamentals Of Ecogenetics is divided into four primary sections of focus. Section one is introductory in nature, with emphasis on fundamental genetics as related to environment. From here, the editors move into investigation of genetic polymorphisms and how these changes within the cell structure (based on genetics) come to shape the body’s response to external stimuli (including organic matter and chemical compounds). In the third section, the authors direct their attention to how any predisposed interaction (based on genetics) between an individual and environment can accurately forecast a person’s susceptibility to disease. Finally, in section four, the myriad social, legal and ethical questions that surface once the researcher begins such an analysis are examined in deep detail.

The importance of this text and its erudite discussions of genetic patterns cannot be understated, as its authors attempt to break down different codes of human genetics and then dissect their findings in relation to various environmental factors (in turn establishing a correlation between external factors and the body’s vulnerability to disease). The idea here is for the researcher to look deeper than the fact that certain chemicals are carcinogenic. Instead, the point of this research is to understand exactly what genetic traits might cause a specific reaction to environmental stimuli.

It is likely that once researchers grasp this knowledge they will then understand why some people become diabetic while others are crippled with degenerative arthritis while still others are struck with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Simply, it is only after scientists see where these diseases originate can preventive measures be developed.

This text would be a vital in-office reference for any scientific researcher dedicated to the study of genetics. Further recommended as a teaching text in molecular biology courses and or genetic studies courses which look into the impact of environment on the individual. In addition, this text could prove invaluable to Public Health researchers who are looking at how global threats like Avian Flu might spread to the general populous. Finally, serves as an indispensable reference to all Health Science libraries.

ENCYCLOPEDIA OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES. Modern Methodologies. Michel Tibayrenc. Wiley-Liss.

As scientists and governments throughout the world seek answers to such complex problems as the Avian Flu, community acquired pneumonia and AIDS, this new release from the venerable John Wiley and Sons collets the most up-to-date research on the subject of infectious disease. The Encyclopedia of Infectious Diseases is organized into five primary parts. Section One takes a long and sustained look at current threats to world-health, with discussion of such afflictions as AIDS, malaria, SARS and influenza. Section two charts the evolution of pathogens and the relationship between human genetic diversity and the spread of infectious diseases. Sections three and four examine new and provocative data relating to molecular identification, vector control, satellite detection, surveillance, modeling and high-throughput technologies. Finally, section five focuses on topics of international concern – the coverage of such issues as bioterrorism and the use of antibiotics helping to render this volume both timely and vital. Tibayrenc’s treatise lives up to its moniker because of its depth – this encyclopedic overview examining both the root-causes of infectious disease and the methods of pathogen-transmission (while also carefully discussing the affect the random spread of disease has on the whole of the culture). Thus, Encyclopedia of Infectious Diseases should be treated as a frontline reference that paints a real-life picture of the greatest challenge now confronting medicine in the new millennium.

Recommended to physicians at major urban centers that feature Infectious Disease Departments. Further recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text with long-term value to multiple areas of study.

by John Aiello

Of Related Interest

DISEASE SURVEILLANCE. A Public Health Informatics Approach. Editors: Joseph S. Lombardo. David L. Buckeridge. Wiley-Interscience.

Unfortunately, we live in a day and age when the earth and its populous remain under a constant threat that pandemics or incidences of bioterrorism will kill millions. Accordingly, science as a whole has now been charged with the assignment of protecting us. But how? The answer is in the concept of vigilance, in the idea of surveillance. Thus, Disease Surveillance, a new frontline text edited by Joseph Lombardo (John Hopkins University) and David Buckeridge (McGill University) creates a roadmap for scientists to follow as they build systems to detect disease-based threats to global safety. Here, 15 top experts have been assembled to analyze the question of disease surveillance from different perspectives, including medicine; epidemiology; biostatistics; and medical informatics. Assembled in three primary parts, topics of coverage include how to obtain and assimilate research data and then apply it to disease surveillance; how to educate the workforce; and how to evaluate the unique challenges awaiting future generations. As readers wade through this in depth text, the message is clear: It will take a concentrated effort from myriad divisions of science in order to erect effective barriers against the threat of disease (both natural and man-made).

Recommended as a primary course text for classes in Public Health Informatics. In addition, this would prove to be a useful in-office text for all government researchers and epidemiologists charged with controlling the spread of disease.

by John Aiello

HOLISTIC MANAGEMENT. Managing What Matters for Company Success. William F. Christopher. Wiley-Interscience.

This text just-released from Wiley offers sound direction on how to approach management of your business, offering direction on how to build an operations plan that stresses organization and a timely use of resources. Simply, businesses excel because they structure themselves in a way that best utilizes their strengths – managing personnel, budget constraints and customer-needs in a seamless and proactive fashion. Easier said than done you say. Well, yes and no. Here, William Christopher (President, Management Innovations Group) has created a text that promotes a combination of two popular business management theories, extracting the best aspects of each in order to build the theory of holistic management. In this authoritative reference, Christopher stitches together pieces of the Viable System Model (VSM) and the Key Performance Areas, showing readers how to assess their businesses and their missions before instructing them on ways to best manage people and resources in order to meet the over-all goals of the organization. Readers will note that this manual is not some compendium of buzz words that drowns in hollow talk. Instead, Christopher has created a book that brims with practical advice, as case examples interspersed throughout the narrative put the author’s theories into action, applying them to the framework of actual businesses. Topic areas of coverage include planning and budgeting; retention of customers; quality control and productivity; innovation; improving the existing organizational structure; and profitability. Noted for its creative approach that sets out to answer the age-old question of ‘how do I make my business run more efficiently?’

Recommended as a teaching text in all advanced Business Management courses – recognized for its innovative and bold attempt to go beyond conventional theories of management. Holistic Management would also prove useful to operations managers in both corporate and industrial settings, since the information contained here offers vital insight into how to create effective and practical organizational plans.

by John Aiello

COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES AND THE MANAGEMENT OF DIABETES AND VASCULAR DISEASE: A MATTER OF BALANCE. Editor: Trish Dunning. John Wiley.

Unfortunately, diabetes and vascular disease often present together, restricting mobility and compromising patient quality of life. In addition, the incidence of diabetes is on the rise, as the world-wide obesity epidemic has caused new cases of the disease to triple since 1985. In short, diabetes is as grave concern jeopardizing the over-all health of the global populous. In this text, which stands out for its editing and for the way the authors sew one topic to the next to create a seamless narrative, readers are taught that in order to further the quality of life for the diabetic it may be necessary to consider using alternative therapies in conjunction with conventional methods. As Dunning and co-writers show, the treatment of diabetes and vascular disease and the choices that doctors make on what healing-course to pursue is never without risk – instead, as the title of this text infers, the task mandates a constant balancing act that requires the physician to carefully monitor the patient for potentially life-threatening changes in condition. What is most important about this text is that Dunning sets forth the fact that diabetics cannot expect to achieve control over their disease unless they work toward a “life balance.” Simply, the idea is to balance the body against the attack of disease and work toward therapies that compliment each other (and the different body systems). In addition, Dunning and co-writers promote deep discussion between doctor and patient before any plan for a course of treatment is acted upon. Complementary Therapies and the Management of Diabetes gives medical professionals a concrete summary of the practice guidelines in place which outline ways that physicians can safely combine alternative therapies with traditional treatments in order to better manage the care of the diabetic patient. In essence, the use of a complementary approach to treat serious disease is a high-wire balancing act: While these treatments can be beneficial, they can also be dangerous, and doctors who use them are obligated to follow their patients closely to insure that conditions do not suddenly become worse.

Highly recommended for all health care providers who see diabetic patients (including internists, dieticians, endocrinologists and nurse practitioners). Further recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

by John Aiello

CLINICAL DECISION MAKING: CASE STUDIES IN MATERNITY AND WOMEN’S HEALTH. Diann S. Gregory. Thomson-Delmar Learning.

Recently released by Thomson Delmar, CLINICAL DECISION MAKING: CASE STUDIES IN MATERNITY AND WOMEN’S HEALTH by Diann S. Gregory (Miami Dade College) is presented with unique focus and delicate precision: A text meant to “bridge the gap” between knowledge and the student’s ability to apply that knowledge.

Here, Gregory has structured a manualmeant to assist nurses in the making of clinical decisions that relate directly to women’s health and to maternity-based cases. In this unique and practical series from Delmar Learning, nurses are summoned to the “front lines” of the classroom and confronted with real life scenarios; the idea is to present a “case” study and then step back while the nurse assembles the myriad information and offers the proper care. Gregory’s ultimate lesson is to show that the typical classroom is a sterile and completely controlled environment, while the hospital itself is a kinetic and unpredictable stage where anything can happen at any time. Good nurses mustmaster the transition, or lives willlikely be compromised.

Clinical Decision Making has been deemed worthy of consideration for classroom adoption because ofits boldness and breadth, a textbook that in effect marriesthe walls of the classroom to the hospital maternity ward and then demandsthe reader initiate an appropriate plan of action — immediately testingthe nurse’s retention of material and their ability to transfer that knowledge directly to the care of the patient.

PEDIATRICS. From Thomson-Learning’s Case Study Series. Bonita Broyles. Thomson-Delmar Learning.

As part of the same series, Bonita Broyles Pediatrics uses an identical editorial format to stress the core idea of the Learning Case Study Series: to re-enforce principles of critical thinking so that the nurse is able to use proper judgment in assessing a case and initiating treatment. Divided into 20 independent studies, Broyles’ Pediatrics paints real life pictures (“case studies”) and places the nurse smack-dab in the middle of the treatment room with a call to evaluate varied situations and provide appropriate remedies.Each case begins by setting the scene, asthe nurse/reader is presented with various pieces of personal data (such as patient age, gender, ethnicity, cultural considerations, pharmacological specifics, and spiritual considerations), before being confrontedwith a factual summary of why the patient requires care. At this point, the reader is pressedwith several questions of consideration which, when answered correctly, offer a “blue-print” to a suitable course of therapy. Aside from its pin-point writing and sharp organization, the best part of this text is that it forgoes the predilection to “lecture” (something so many medical texts fall prey to), instead dedicating its full focus to the practical world where patients are not names on paper but instead actual living breathing people whose well-beingis in their nurse’shands.

Each of these texts is presented in multiple versions, with either 20 or 40 case studies documented. Thecompact and streamlined versions offering 20studies are appropriate for use as a secondary class text in support of a more generalized manual on the foundational aspects of nursing.

A GUIDE TO HEALTH INSURANCE BILLING (Second Edition). Marie A. Moisio. Thomson Delmar Learning.

This text from Thomson-Delmar, together with other Thomson  publications [1], are reviewed with a future eye fixed on exploring both the ever-worsening health care crisis and scandals involving non-profit hospitals [2] (institutions which presently provide the majority of health care services that are available in the United States).

However, some basic background is first necessary in order to educate the reader on these topics.

The Federal Medicare program was established in 1966 to provide basic form of supplementary health insurance to individuals 65 years or older (and to other qualifying individuals). (See 42 U.S.C. Sections 1395c, 1395j). Basically, Medicare gives retirement age individuals the ability to seek medical services under a program that is universally accepted among the nation’s health care providers. Although convenient and easy for the consumer to use, the program itself has become a breeding ground for abuse, as doctors and their billing agents have gained control over a patient-base that has little ability to understand or monitor how services are being billed.

Yet, as Moisio’s book reminds its readers, there are grave consequences to unscrupulous conduct on the part of health care providers. Specifically, it is a felony for a health care provider to intentionally make false statements of a material fact in order to obtain any payment. 42 U.S.C. Sections1320a-7b(a); 42 C.F.R. Section 455.2.

Moreover, a health care provider found to have engaged in fraudulent billing is subject to a revocation of its right to treat Medicare beneficiaries. The scope of improper billing can be seen in statistics complied by the Department of Justice which in 1996 estimated improper payments made by the Government amounted to 23.5 billion dollars (see: http://usdoj.gov/dag/pubdoc/hipaa99ar21.htm).

Given the magnitude of the problem and its impact on the quality of health care for every citizen, portions of Marie A. Moisio’s text, specifically her chapter on the legal aspects of insurance billing, are especially relevant to life in 2006. Refreshingly, Moisio has not ignored the overriding issue of insurance fraud/abuse, noting in her chapter on the legal aspects of insurance billing that: “[i]nsurance billing fraud and abuse cost the federal government between 11 and 23 billion dollars per year. In 2002, about 7 % of Medicare’s total expenditures was paid inappropriately. The reasons for this error rate include fraud, abuse and lack of medical documentation related to insurance claims processing” (Page 33).

Health care fraud is defined differently depending on the federal or state statute involved, but the term often means that “someone is illegally attempting to collect insurance payments from government health insurance programs…Most health insurance billing fraud is targeted at the Medicare program…Health insurance fraud activities fall under three main categories: fraudulent diagnoses, billing for services not rendered, and medical coding errors” (Page 34)

In illustration, Moisio provides well-defined examples relating to each category:

Fraudulent diagnoses consist of either intentionally falsifying a diagnosis, misrepresenting the diagnosis, or selecting a diagnosis based on the amount of reimbursement. Billing for services not rendered can consist of scenarios where equipment is never provided to the patient; hospital visits which never occur; or laboratory/diagnostic tests which are never administered. Medical billing errors can include “upcoding” or selecting a diagnostic code based on a greater reimbursement; “leveling” or using the same billing/diagnostic code for all office visits; and “unbundling,” or assigning individual medical or office-visit codes to services or diagnoses covered by a single code (note Moisio’s excellent snapshots of such activity).

Unfortunately, identifying fraudulent activity in an ultra-complicated environment is not simple. For example, Medicare reimburses hospitals on a Progressive Payment System (PPS) that was adopted by Congress in 1986 (a system intended to reimburse hospitals for their “reasonable costs” according to PPS methodology which uses both a fee schedule and a cost-base method or a combination of both).

The primary components of this payment system are Medicare Part A, which covers institutional services, and Part B, which covers outpatient services provided by physicians and other professionals (with each segment or “part’ financed differently and offering specific and distinct coverage). Part A provider claims for reimbursement are processed by “fiscal intermediaries,” which are generally insurance companies operating under contract with the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Part B provider claims are processed by “carriers” who are also commercial insurance companies.

In actuality, the PPS payment method is a labyrinth of rules and regulations virtually incomprehensible to all but the most determined student, and deep understanding of this material requires access to a two-volume “Provider Reimbursement Manual” which is basically the “bible” of the industry.

Medical reimbursements have created acomplicated system with layered rules that benefit hospitals in myriad ways. Some examples of instances which mandate special attention: payment adjustments may be made to providers who are sole community hospitals or Medicare-dependent small rural hospitals; adjustments may be made if a provider serves a disproportionate share of low-income patients; teaching hospitals can receive additional payments through a variety of indirect medical education adjustments. In addition, there are also different cost-reporting requirements for proprietary facilities, teaching hospitals, doctors providing inpatient medical services, skilled nursing facilities, and home health care facilities (among others).

As a means to illuminate her readers on how health care billing is done, Moisio provides crisp descriptions of the coding systems and the terms commonly used in those systems:

“CPT “Evaluation and Management” section (E/M) (99201-99499) codes are divided into three broad categories of provider services: office visits, hospital visits, and consultations. E/M codes capture information about medical services, as opposed to surgical services. As the name implies, evaluation and management codes are used to report physician or provider activities associated with evaluating an individual’s health status and managing or implementing a plan of care related to that status.”

(Page 184)

And taking the subject still further:

“Selecting the appropriate evaluation and management CPT code that is the responsibility of the physician or provider. Many providers document the E/M code by circling or checking one of the E/M codes that are preprinted on the encounter form or route slip. Figure 6-7 is a sample encounter form with the E/M and diagnosis codes printed . . . It is important to emphasize that the billing specialist and medical coder do not challenge the clinical judgment of the physician. Rather, the record review is a method to ensure that the documentation in the patient record supports the physician-or provider-selected code. . .Insurance carriers and regulatory agencies monitor E/M codes for upcoding or downcoding . . .Some providers downcode under the mistaken assumption that this prevents insurance carrier or regulatory agency audits. In fact, both upcoding and downcoding can be categorized as insurance fraud or abuse.”

(Pages 196-197)

Even though the system itself seems to create paths of abuse, fraudulent manipulation of a patient’s Medicare benefits are not tolerated, with severe administrative, civil and criminal penalties in place should a health care provider be proven to have engaged in insurance fraud. To evince how serious it takes the issue, the Government encourages citizens to come forward to report suspicious patterns of activity. And Moisio writes:

“The Federal False Claims Act provides financial incentives when suspected fraudulent activities are proven true. Any individual who reports the fraud may receive 15%-25% of any judgment.”

(Page 36)

Although written as a learning aid, A Guide To Health Insurance Billing is one of the few readily obtainable resources which provides a clear understanding of this subject area, including a guide to key terms and abbreviations, descriptions of medical coding, and sample copies of the appropriate forms. Accordingly, it not only serves the goals of the student, but also can assist administrative agencies, auditors and attorneys involved in the examination and prosecution of insurance fraud. We found the short but informative chapter on the intricacies of Medicare billing worth the price of the book alone.

Recommended as a primary classroom text in courses focused on the technical aspects of billing procedures for the health care industry. Further recommended as a research tool for individuals charged with overseeing this industry and enforcing procedural compliance. Finally, recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

[1] Future columns in The Electric Review’s Reference section will review several of Thomson/RIA’s manuals on tax requirements for not-for-profit entities.

[2] Mississippi attorney Richard Scruggs, noted for litigating cases against the tobacco industry, recently filed several lawsuits against non-profit hospitals alleging that they were illegally acting as non-profit entities andnot meeting the IRS’ strict standards to maintain thisstatus. Consequently, the evidence Scruggs is presenting in his cases has opened up the entire concept of the not-for-profit hospital to closer scrutiny — by both the Internal Revenue Service and the American public.

Order from Thomson-Delmar Learning.

by Frank Aiello

© Frank Aiello. All rights reserved.

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Frank Aiello is an attorney who has practiced law in California since the 1970s, including criminal defense, civil and probate work. He holds a History degree from the University of California at Berkeley, and a Law degree from Hastings College of the Law in San Francisco; he has also studied Anthropology, Sociology and Political Science extensively. Reach him via The Electric Review.

Of Related Interest

3-2-1 CODE IT! Michelle A. Green. Thomson-Delmar Learning.

CORRECT CODING FOR MEDICARE, COMPLIANCE AND REIMBURSEMENT. Belinda Frisch. Thomson-Delmar Learning.

These manuals recently released by Delmar Learning allow billing officers to learn the fine points of medical coding in order to maximize reimbursements (while remaining fully compliant with Medicare and private insurance guidelines). The ability of medical providers to code procedures correctly is vital to maintaining accuracy and solvency within the healthcare system. As A GUIDE TO HEALTH INSURANCE BILLING by Marie A. Moisio (reviewed above) affirms, there is blatant waste occurring at hospitals across the country. Some of this waste is due to fraud. And some of it is a result of ignorance and incompetence as billing offices struggle to master a complicated system of codes and procedures. Accordingly, the only way to cut down on human error is to outfit billing officers with manuals that provide guidance in clear and precise terms. And these two volumes are ‘just what the doctor ordered,’ as they set forth the intricacies of medical coding in a way that does not require priestly knowledge of medical coding systems.

Simply, no American hospital or physician’s office should be without direct access to these manuals, as routine use of this data can help avoid a visit from a Federal auditor or an inquiry from a private insurance carrier’s chief counsel.

by John Aiello

MERRIAM-WEBSTER’S MEDICAL DESK DICTIONARY. Revised. Thomson-Delmar Learning.

This reference manual (recently released in its revised edition) is the best – and most affordable – general medical dictionary presently on the market. The volume offers over 60,000 entries of terms specifically related to health care; definitions of terms that apply to health-care treatments, medical conditions and commonly used medications are also included. In addition, the reader will find mini-biographies of prominent medical pioneers whose work has influenced the practice of medicine in terms of research and patient care. Webster’s Medical also compiles definitions of oft-used abbreviations, as well as a truncated writing style guide for the practicing health care professional. Quite simply, this title is the definition of reference work, as Webster’s is a name known throughout the world for the creation of timeless dictionaries that have helped students work thorough their fundamental years of education. Here, we have the sure-handed vision of a Webster’s that has been dedicated to illuminating the language specific to the practice of medicine. Although the ‘target’ audience for Webster’s Medical is the health care professional and the medical student, there is also a place for this text in the hands of the patient/‘consumer’ as well. Developed by expert reference writers, the definitions compiled here are presented in a clear and compact style, and they can be readily understood by most detail-driven readers. In light of how many individuals are taking a ‘hands-on’ approach to their own medical care, this dictionary allows us to quickly become familiar with the terms and phrases our doctors are using. In turn, this knowledge will allow patients to develop well-reasoned questions for their health care providers in order to build a better understanding of the medical therapy they are receiving.

Recommended to Health Science libraries for its long-term reference value: as a medical dictionary, this selection sets the standard. In addition, it should be on the desk of all medical professionals as an in-office reference tool that will be referred to on a constant basis. Finally, this book also has value to the consumer for its clear and straight-forward style that never ‘talks down’ to its reader.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY FOR THE SURGICAL TECHNOLOGIST. Kevin B. Frey. Paul Price. Thomson-Delmar Learning.

Anatomy and Physiology courses form the foundation of the general study of medicine. In addition, these aspects of the curriculum are vital to the emergence of the surgical specialist — without a thorough understanding of how the body is built and how the organ systems inter-relate, there can be no competent surgical intervention.

In Surgical Anatomy, Price and Frey have constructed a perfectly readable text that surveys the human body in complete terms. The goal of this text is simple: To familiarize the surgical technologist with the human anatomy and its physiology so that medical personnel are able to mitigate the inherent risks that surgery poses to the patient. The authors write:

“In fact, patient outcomes for intraoperative care can be negatively affected by the surgical technologist who does not understand anatomy. It is especially important that the practitioner of intraoperative care understand the distinction between general and surgical anatomy. For the surgical technologist to function effectively in the operating room, an accurate view of the human body is necessary, with emphasis placed on the application of this science to practical surgery.”

Moving through the layers of this text, readers are met with well-ordered chapters that build on each other to form a coherent narrative. The book begins with a snapshot of the organization of the human body, and then segues into study of its chemistry and cell structure. From here, we are ready to examine tissues and membranes as they build into this highly sophisticated labyrinth of organ systems (heart, circulatory, nervous, muscular, skeletal, vascular) that governs human life.

In addition, each chapter includes two case studies focused on surgical intervention — the authors expertly sewing the material together so as to make it meaningful to the practicing health care provider and advanced student. In a crisp, deft and economical style, Frey and Price not only outline the anatomical and physiological aspects of the body, but also show just how the information pertains to the very specific practice of surgery.

For doctors and students alike, the goal is to understand that intervening on an organ via an operation is a delicate and precise event – -an event which requires a certain appreciation for the way the human body is constructed. This text, while detailing the scientific data, also ushers the reader to the threshold of a greater lesson — a lesson that leaves the surgeon and his staff appreciating the “person” and not just the “patient.”

Recommended to instructors of any course centered around preparing medical personnel for work in the operating room — from anesthesiologists to specialized nurses to surgery-based technicians. To this end, the text is premised on clear and sharp writing that serves a large demographic. Further recommended to Health Science libraries as a general reference text with long-term value.

RESPIRATORY CARE SCIENCES. An Intergrated Approach. Fourth Edition. William V. Wojciechowski. Thomson-Delmar Learning.

This widely used text by Wojciechowski (Department of Cardiorespiratory Care University of South Alabama) offers a full over-view of an area of burgeoning interest in medical center teaching programs across the country. Respiratory Care, now in its 4th edition, greets its readers with a comprehensive summary of the discipline, beginning with the mathematical foundations of the process. This mathematical overview includes analysis of scientific notation and exponents, ratios, proportions, units of measurement, algebraic expressions and numbers comparison. From here, the reader steps into deep examination of The Kinetic Theory of Matter, Gas Laws, Chemical Laws and Fluid Dynamics (along with other principles of Chemistry, Physics and Statistics), thus extending the circle of information for both student and practitioner. As the title of this text implies, the study of Respiratory Science mandates an integrated approach, since so many independent areas of study are married together with perfect precision in the creation of this unique specialty that focuses on assisting patients through episodes of respiratory distress. In addition to the ‘core science’ data, readers also will examine details of Physiologic Chemistry and Microbiology, with students specifically investigating the biochemical mechanisms of Bronchospasm and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome – two common conditions that patients present with requiring the expertise of the respiratory specialist in order to restore balanced lung function. There are many notable aspects to this text, but a review cannot pass without mention of its organization: each chapter begins with an “objectives” section that serves to outline the material that an individual section will cover. At this juncture, the student is escorted through the author’s outline step-by-step. Finally, the lesson culminates with practice problems and a summarization of salient chapter discussions (in addition to review questions). These concluding features immediately come to test the reader’s retention and inspire the practice of self-testing (traits that are paramount to respiratory therapists being able to effectively and safely treat patients).

Recommended as a class text for all courses focused on teaching the fundamental sciences as they relate to the practice of Respiratory Therapy. Would further prove useful to working therapists as an in-office reference providing an eloquent overview of core data. Further recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

by John Aiello

Of Related Interest

CLINICAL APPLICATION OF MECHANICAL VENTILATION. Third Edition. David W. Chang. Thomson-Delmar Learning.

The Terri Schiavo case widely reported on earlier this year jettisoned this subject into the consciousness of the general public, as many Americans were forced to put in writing their views on life-support through mechanical means. While the Schiavo case looked at the idea from a social/personal/religious perspective, this text by David Chang (Athens Technical College) examines the application of Mechanical Ventilation from a clinical /medical/scientific point-of-view. To this end, Chang takes a truly comprehensive approach in examining his subject, looking at the principles of MV (including the clinical conditions that would warrant such intervention); the effects of positive pressure ventilation (including cardiovascular and hepatic considerations); Home Mechanical Ventilation (including discussion of the impact on the patient and family); special airways for ventilation; and neonatal Mechanical Ventilation (to cite but a few of the topics covered in these pages). Each chapter includes a topical outline and a key terms box , in addition to the self-assessment questions that close each individual section (similar to the teaching concept employed in Respiratory Care Sciences, the student reader is tested immediately as he moves through the layers of data in order to promote maximum retention).

Obviously, this material makes a logical companion to the Wojciechowski text featured in the preceding column, and Mr. Chang’s text comes highly recommended to instructors: it would serve well as a teaching text in any course examining the role of Mechanical Ventilation in 21st century medicine.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY FOR SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND HEARING. Third Edition. J. Anthony Seikel. Douglas W. King. David G. Drumright. Thomson-Delmar Learning.

This text is unique in the market for its specialized exploration into the speech, language and auditory systems of the human framework. Now in its third edition, Seikel (Idaho State University) and his co-authors have developed a textbook focused on topics of speech pathology and audiology – an in depth survey into the anatomy of this region that demonstrates how each of these independent systems is intricately inter-related.

The text begins with a nice overview of anatomy and physiology, including a review of the parts of the body and pertinent terminology. From here, we move into the “building blocks” of life, with discussion of organs, tissues and the systems that govern the body. Once these basics are covered, the authors then begin their focus on the systems that drive our ability to speak and hear.

Many texts devoted to the study of anatomy and physiology tend to leap quickly over this material, and instead will focus on the more popular areas of study (like neurology or the circulatory system). And that is exactly why Seikel’s book stands out: it gives the student a chance to engage in a detailed study of these regions.

As the text moves forward, we are led through the many interlocking systems of the body responsible for speech and hearing. For example, a standout chapter on the anatomy of respiration allows the student to begin to understand that vocalization is a by-product of breath; it simply cannot occur unless a multitude of other interactions are happening simultaneously within the body.

And the same is true for the material that covers the ear. In Anatomy/Physiology, careful consideration is given to the fact that the organ systems of the human body are intricate and inter-related, with many neurological reactions occurring that allow us to process sound and then store it within our minds and memories.

One of the best aspects of this text (in addition to its organization and clearly written passages) is in its ability to make the student aware that the study of one particular organ system must begin with a thorough understanding of the body as a whole. Seikel, King and Drumright have accomplished this in glowing terms.

Recommended as a primary course text in advanced anatomy/physiology and biology courses designed to train Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists. Also recommended to Health Science libraries as a general reference text. A truly unique text impeccably designed.

Also From Delmar Health

COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY: A COMPETENCY BASED APPROACH. Betty Davis Jones. Thomson-Delmar.

This souped-up medical dictionary provides an in depth introduction to medical terminology, designed to familiarize the novice with the systems of the human body, thus preparing him to move into more advanced medical science courses.

However, readers shouldn’t be misled, for this is much more than just a glossary of medical terminology. Instead, Jones has done a remarkable job in creating a dictionary that also can be utilized as an tool in the classroom, as one special segment of the text shows specifically how combining word elements creates medical terms. Accordingly, each time a new word is introduced to the reader its components are broken down to show its root.

The design of the text – by body system and specialty area of practice – is beneficial to the young student in that it allows them to learn one system at a time without skipping around from organ to organ. This stylistic trait promotes a more complete understanding of the systems of the human body, encouraging students to note how each of these systems fit together and work in complete balance. Moreover, Jones has developed a special “Do This/Say It” chapter which forces the student to apply what’s been learned before moving to new material. This second edition also includes a section on gerontology meant to familiarize the young student with the unique problems that confront the elderly patient.

Recommended as a teaching text in all nursing courses and in any under-graduate course that begins the foundation for medical school. Further recommended to all college-level and public sector libraries as a general reference text.

The Informa Healthcare Model

The new quarter has spawned the release of several more outstanding texts from Informa Healthcare in the realm of medical science publishing. To this end, we spotlight the following:

SKIN MOISTURIZATION. Editors: Anthony V. Rawlings. James J. Leyden. Informa Healthcare.

This text focuses on the health of the skin, outlining the scientific basis of skin moisturization. Here, readers are presented  with a comprehensive examination of the biological aspects of  skin before moving into the core of the text – namely, how to keep skin hydrated and healthy.

In essence, the skin is the central organ of the body and it is responsible for providing protection in all kinds of weather and against all kinds of elements. Accordingly, Rawlings and Leyden have created a reference that directs physicians (and especially dermatologists) on how to best care for man’s ‘surface layer.’

The authors survey myriad topics here, including the keys to Epidermal Differentiation; lipid organization of the skin barrier; the role of filaggrin in skin diseases; epidermal pH; the molecular aspects of dry skin conditions; skin barrier dysfunction in atopic dermatitis; the impact of psychological stress on the skin; the efficiency of moisturizing agents on the skin; the effects of Niacinamide-based moisturizers; urea as an effective moisturizing ingredient; cannabinoids and pruritus; and recent developments in skin barrier measurements (to cite random highpoints).

What is best about this text is found in the way that Rawlings and Leyden dissect all components of their subject is clear and cogent terms.

For example, the authors do an exceptional job at evaluating the ‘risk/reward’ question of moisturizers by exploring the relevant safety and regulatory aspects of these compounds – the idea is to show dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons that they owe their patients an on-going duty and must strive to know that the treatments they are prescribing are both effective and safe.

Recommended to all dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons as an in-office reference which will assist in the direct course of patient treatment. Also recommended to all Health Science libraries for its long-term reference value. Noted for the depth of the presentation and for the writing style, which speaks to its audience and not above it.

by John Aiello

The Cengage-Learning Health Corner

AFTER THE DIAGNOSIS. Gary R. McClain. Michelle A. Buchman. Delmar/Cengage.

In this text, healthcare professionals are offered a practical resource designed to teach them to speak effectively with patients after the patient has received a difficult diagnosis. While science traditionally teaches doctors to evaluate, analyze, diagnose and treat, it nonetheless fails to offer a road-map on how to communicate. Still, communication remains the cornerstone of the doctor-patient relationship. In After The Diagnosis, McClain and Buchman have created a text to teach doctors long-term coping strategies that can help patients through a terminal situation. Additionally, the authors show doctors how to help patients evaluate options and make informed treatment decisions. Topics of coverage include how to begin the conversation after diagnosis; coping with reactions; acknowledging emotional reactions; the fear factor; emotions versus the decision-making process; communication between doctor and patient; and teaching patients the importance of gathering information. Notable for its pacing and depth, and also for the clear-sighted manner in which it delivers its message. While there are myriad textbooks available that speak to the diagnostic and treatment phases of medicine, this is the first resource we’ve seen that speaks to how bad news impacts the patient’s consciousness. For that reason alone, this is a must-have for every doctor’s office throughout the world and should further be required reading in the general medical school curriculum.

WEINER’S PAIN MANAGEMENT. A Practical Guide For Clinicians. Seventh Edition. Editors: Mark V. Boswell; B. Eliot Cole. Informa Healthcare.

This selection marks the literal bible of pain management, providing clinicians with a complete road-map on how to treat patients suffering from chronic pain issues. Here, readers are treated to in depth exploration of discipline-specific approaches to pain management (podiatry; spine; dentistry). In addition to discussion of behavioral, pharmacological and integrative treatment regimens that, when stitched together, provide the most detailed journey into the subject.

This book recommended for internists and pain specialists, in addition to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

MODERN SURGICAL TEXT. Edited by Thomas A. Miller. Informa.

Organized according to specific organ systems, this text focuses on surgical physiology for both surgeons in training and those who are already practicing in the field. Modern Surgical is truly ground-breaking in scope and approach, illuminating ways that recent discoveries in surgical physiology might further the physician’s ability to better treat and diagnose patients. Includes outstanding chapters on mechanical support of the failing heart and ways that principles of molecular biology are being applied to the landscape of surgical care. The authors also discuss all major organ systems applicable to general surgery (such as cardiothoracic, urinary and endocrine systems) as they work to hone the authoritative voice in the field.

by John Aiello

THE TEXTBOOK OF PERINATAL MEDICINE. Second Edition. Asim Kurjak. Frank Chervenak. Informa Healthcare.

This massive two-volume tome is impressive not only for its girth, but also, for its exhaustive and authoritative dissection of perinatal medicine. Here, Kurjak and Chervenak have done a masterful job editing the voices of some 380 specialists in the field, expertly weaving them into a single steady narrative that illuminates the complete picture of this ever-evolving discipline. Even though the advent of technology has greatly enhanced a physician’s ability to save lives, a plethora of perinatal challenges remain as doctors struggle to reduce the incidence of newborn death and disability. To this end, this text serves to address major advances in the field, teaching perinatal physicians that it is imperative to maintain a sharp focus on both mother and child, the idea to teach physicians how to anticipate and spot minefields and then diffuse them before they claim lives. A brilliant array of over 1,000 color plates illustrates the narrative, creating a cohesive thread in a truly impressive book.

In addition to being an indispensable manual for all perinatal physicians, Perinatal Medicine also must be included in all health science libraries for its long-term reference and teaching value.

by John Aiello

Of Related Interest

UNDERSTANDING HUMAN BEHAVIOR. (A Guide For Health Care Providers). Alyson Honeycutt. Mary Elizabeth Millken. Eighth Edition. Delmar/Cengage.

This new release from Cengage provides students with an accessible primer that allows them to gain a basic understanding of the tenets of human behavior. Expanded from earlier editions, Understanding Human Behavior provides the reader with an introduction into a subject vital to all health-care providers. Topics of coverage include the philosophy of worth; striving for an understanding of self; forces that influence behavior; the basic need for self-approval and acceptance; emotions and behavior; patterns of behavior; common threats to adjustment; the effects of traumatic events; defense mechanisms; inner conflict; grief and bereavement; and nonverbal behavior. Noted for its clear and concise presentation that will be immediately accessible to the undergraduate student.

by John Aiello

CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE. Third Edition. James T. Willerson. Jay N. Cohn. Hein J.J. Wellens. David R. Holmes Jr. (Editors). Springer.

Cardiovascular medicine continues to be one of the most intriguing and ever-changing areas of all medical study, as advancements in the field via both the research laboratory and clinical practice offer those with sick hearts a renewed chance at survival.

In this text (now in its third edition), Willerson and his co-editors present a magnificent resource for both cardiologists and internists. Here, the reader is presented with the most comprehensive reference available on the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of heart and vascular disease.

Simply, Cardiovascular Medicine provides a complete study of the human heart. Topics of coverage include coronary heart disease syndromes; congestive heart failure; heart valve disease; cardiac pacing; sudden death; the importance of lipid management in forestalling heart attack and stroke; and advancements in non-invasive imaging.

Moreover, the advancements that have taken place in the field (in relation to diagnostic measures and pharmacological options) take center stage here, as the authors thoroughly investigate the vast palette of resources the physician now has at his disposal when treating the cardiac patient.

However, going beyond the unfathomable amount of information this book contains, what truly sets it apart in the world of cardiovascular textbooks is its reliability: The writers and editors assembled here have done a stunning job in presenting the complexities of heart disease in sharp and readable passages that convey data with precision and style.

Although there are many who consider themselves ‘science writers,’ the craft is, in reality, quite difficult to master – the writer charged with taking complex tomes of information and reducing them to clear and concise packages that can be referenced by medical personnel on the ‘front lines.’

In Cardiovascular Medicine, Willerson and co-editors have accomplished this feat in glowing terms – building a resource that should be used by cardiologists, internists, cardiac surgeons, endocrinologists and radiologists on a daily basis and in the direct treatment of patients.

NOTE: The book contains a companion DVD-ROM which includes video imagery for selected chapters and the full text of the manual, in addition to an interactive heart sounds presentation.

KIDNEY AND PANCREAS TRANSPLANTATION. T.R. Srinivas. Daniel A. Shoskes, Editors. Humana Press/Springer.

In this volume, readers are presented with a comprehensive analysis of the fine-points of kidney and pancreas transplantation. This collaborative effort by the physicians and surgeons of the transplant division at the Cleveland Clinic offers readers a complete summary of surgical intervention as it pertains to kidney and pancreas surgery. Topics of coverage include immune response to transplanted organs; immunosuppressive therapy in kidney and pancreas transplantation; medical and surgical evaluation of the adult kidney transplant candidate; surgical transplantation techniques; and the ethics of transplantation. This volume is notable because it paints a practical face on this ever-evolving sub-specialty, offering transplant surgeons and clinicians alike a single-volume reference containing the latest available data on kidney and pancreas transplant procedures.

by John Aiello

SURGICAL TREATMENT OF PANCREATIC DISEASES. Walter Siquini. Springer.

Pancreatic diseases present countless challenges for both clinician and surgeon, as quick diagnosis and subsequent surgical intervention are imperative to giving the patient any real chance at survival. Accordingly, the last 20 years have stood witness to myriad advancements in the field of pancreatic surgery, as researchers have worked to unlock the mysteries of this organ that regulates so many of the sub-systems of the human body. In this new text, Siquini breaks down the process of pancreatic surgery as it relates to the treatment of inflammatory and neoplastic pancreatic diseases (in addition to offering relevant discussion of interventional radiology, operative endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasonography). Going beyond the cutting-edge tone of this reference, Siquini’s work as a scientific writer should not be overlooked, as he is able to pierce the core of this material with completeness and flair (in turn making Surgical Treatment of Pancreatic Diseases the voice in its area of study).

HISTORY OF THE PANCREAS. Mysteries of a Hidden Organ. John Howard. Walter Hess. Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers. This hearty reference looks to unlock secrets of the little-understood but vital pancreas, offering an insightful commentary that records the organ’s complete history. With this tome, the authors have made quite a unique contribution to the annals of scientific literature, focusing attention on an organ that is less sensational than the heart or the brain, but no less important to the body’s delicate over-all balance. Accordingly, History Of The Pancreas creates a layered timeline meant to record the major discoveries surrounding the organ (from the Pre-Christian era of Asia Minor to Greece, Rome, Europe and America extending to the great breakthroughs at the hands of anatomists Wirsung, Santorini, Oddi and Vater). In sum, this treatise serves to outline the pancreas for clinicians and surgeons who now can use the information to formulate better approaches to patient treatment.

by John Aiello

DAIL AND HAMMAR’S PULMONARY PATHOLOGY. Volume II: Neoplastic Lung Disease. Third Edition. Editors: Joseph F. Tomashefski, Jr. Philip T. Cagle. Carol F. Farver. Armando E. Fraire. Springer. Known in the field as the definitive voice and the go-to-guide in the realm of pulmonary pathology, Dail and Hammar (now in its third edition) is written for both the classroom and the office of the practicing clinician. In this text, readers are greeted with a layered and comprehensive reference that presents the latest thinking on the pathology of the respiratory system. This second volume is dedicated to Neoplastic Lung Disease, with chapters devoted to sarcomatoid carcinoma, lymphoproliferative diseases, preinvasive disease and tracheobronchial tumors of the salivary gland (among others). Even though dedicated to these diseases of the respiratory system, readers will note that Dail and Hammar also provides introspective discussion of the topic of general pathology (thus making this a meaningful reference to physicians in a multiplicity of subspecialties).

INTENSIVE CARE. A Concise Textbook. Third Edition. Charles Hinds. David Watson. Saunders. Geared to trainees (and to those preparing for licensing examinations in the field), this volume provides exploration into the study of critical care medicine, examining the fine-points of this sub-specialty in a crisp and user-friendly style. Here, Hinds and Watson have created a text that serves to teach physicians in training how to escort patients through intensive or critical-care situations. Along the way, the authors touch on myriad ancillary topics, such as acute coronary syndromes and ventilator-associated pneumonia. This title is noted for its format and depth, as Intensive Care provides readers with a concise and effective template on how to build a reference that speaks to both trainees and qualified specialists in the field.

WEINER’S PAIN MANAGEMENT. A Practical Guide For Clinicians. Seventh Edition. Editors: Mark V. Boswell; B. Eliot Cole. Informa Healthcare. This selection marks the literal bible of pain management, providing clinicians with a complete road-map on how to treat patients suffering from chronic pain issues. Here, readers are treated to in depth exploration of discipline-specific approaches to pain management (podiatry; spine; dentistry), in addition to discussion of behavioral, pharmacological and integrative treatment regimens that, when stitched together, provide the most detailed journey into the subject.

This book recommended for internists and pain specialists, in addition to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

MODERN SURGICAL TEXT.  Physiologic Foundations and Clinical Applications. Edited by Thomas A. Miller (with Barbara A. Bass; Peter J. Fabri; Carl E. Haisch; David W. Mercer; Ronald C. Merrell; Stuart I. Meyers). Informa Healthcare. Organized according to specific organ systems, this text focuses on surgical physiology for both surgeons in training and those who are already practicing in the field. Modern Surgical is truly ground-breaking in scope and approach, illuminating ways that recent discoveries in surgical physiology might further the physician’s ability to better treat and diagnose patients. Includes outstanding chapters on mechanical support of the failing heart and ways that principles of molecular biology are being applied to the landscape of surgical care. The authors also discuss all major organ systems applicable to general surgery (such as cardiothoracic, urinary and endocrine systems) as they work to hone the authoritative voice in the field.

HISTORY OF THE PANCREAS. Mysteries of a Hidden Organ. John Howard. Walter Hess. Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers. This hearty reference looks to unlock secrets of the little-understood but vital pancreas, offering an insightful commentary that records the organ’s complete history. With this tome, the authors have made quite a unique contribution to the annals of scientific literature, focusing attention on an organ that is less sensational than the heart or the brain, but no less important to the body’s delicate over-all balance. Accordingly, History Of The Pancreas creates a layered timeline meant to record the major discoveries surrounding the organ (from the Pre-Christian era of Asia Minor to Greece, Rome, Europe and America extending to the great breakthroughs at the hands of anatomists Wirsung, Santorini, Oddi and Vater). In sum, this treatise serves to outline the pancreas for clinicians and surgeons who now can use the information to formulate better approaches to patient treatment.

by John Aiello

LEVIN AND O’NEAL’S THE DIABETIC FOOT. Seventh Edition. John H. Bowker. Michael A. Pfeifer. Mosby.

Diabetes remains one of medicine’s great challenges as changes within the metabolic cycles of the body continue to mystify physicians who struggle to bring relief to suffering patients.

Here, the authors have created a unique text that guides doctors on how to diagnose and manage patients who present with diabetic foot problems. Topics of coverage include an overview of diabetes mellitus; the epidemiology of foot ulcers and amputations; neuropathic issues of the lower extremities; the principles and concepts of hemorheology; how to manage foot lesions in the diabetic patient; how to effectively evaluate the diabetic patient; in addition to summaries of both surgical and non-surgical management of diabetes (to name random highpoints).

Levin and O’Neal’s takes a comprehensive approach to surveying its subject, moving from an overview of the disease to ways that physicians can diagnose and treat the disease (before concluding with an in depth exploration of ways a ‘team approach’ can be employed to mitigate patient suffering while providing for comprehensive care of an often virulent and unpredictable affliction).

Readers will quickly note that the writing of this text is impressive: An incisive style (together with sharp editing and the inclusion of effective illustrations) coalesce to create a manual meant to aid in the direct care of patients (this multi-layered reference extending to a vast audience that includes orthopedists, endocrinologists, vascular surgeons, wound care specialists, podiatrists and home-health nurses).

In sum, this text represents the full face of diabetes – showing medical professionals in myriad realms that effective treatment of this disease requires the practitioner to develop a keen understanding of its mechanics and subtleties (while also remaining vigilant of the fact that every patient presents with unique symptoms that deserve personalized care).

Recommended to all medical professionals who treat the diabetic patient. Further recommended to Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

Also from the Elsevier Health Profession’s Shelf

A CLINICAL GUIDE TO DENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY. Louis H. Berman. Lucia Blanco. Stephen Cohen. Mosby.

Dentists who work in urban settings and provide support for trauma centers often see patients who have sustained facial damage and require specialized care. In turn, this kind of work is some of the most pressure-packed and delicate a dentist will ever perform, since many times accidents or other blunt-force trauma has caused great destruction to tooth and tissue. Clinical Guide to Dental Traumatology is a well-organized textbook designed to escort dentists through treatment procedures for commonly encountered tooth injuries. Topics of coverage include crown and root fractures; luxation injuries; and exarticulations. In addition to addressing treatment procedures, the authors also are careful to discuss complications that can occur in an effort to stress to physicians that no part of such trauma care is ever routine. Going further, Berman and co-writers also discuss how to confront pediatric and geriatric patients whose ages pose specific challenges. Finally, there is also a standout section on the legal aspects of treating dental injuries that all doctors should pay careful attention to. In sum, Clinical Guide to Dental Traumatology demands recognition for the step-by-step counsel it provides on an array of dental emergencies. In addition, the stunning color plates offer overview of key points while also providing physicians with visual direction on difficult-to-master surgeries.

This text is recommended to all dentists whose practices include the treatment of dental traumas. Also recommended to instructors in dentistry programs that teach the fine-points of trauma care. Finally, recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

by John Aiello

MEDICINE AND CARE OF THE DYING. Milton J. Lewis. Oxford University Press.

Sociologist Otto Frank has observed that Western medical treatment involves a compromise between care and efficiency by creating the illusion of involvement. However, this illusion is now showing signs of severe strain as the costs of technology and health services, particularly in America, reach an unconscionable level.

Simply put, few will be able to afford the benefits of scientific medicine or obtain entry into arrogant and greedy healthcare systems which often treat patients as little more than an opportunity to bill an insurance company. Somewhere, in the quest for medical research and research dollars, the physician’s commitment to caring for patients has been lost.

In Medicine and Care, Milton J. Lewis notes that outspoken critics such as Thomas McKeown, Archibald Cochrane, Daniel Callahan and Eric Cassell have argued that high-cost, high-technology medicine is resulting in diminishing returns and an unsustainable system:

“It was a health care system with acute separated from chronic patients, home care form hospital care, and preventative measures from curative services. .. In the United States, Daniel Callahan and Eric Cassell were also calling for medicine to rediscover the lost art of caring. Callahan, on the grounds of humanity and economic sustainability, claimed that the health system had to cease giving primacy to high-technology medicine that aimed to cure all diseases and, in a godlike way, forestall death.”

(Page 61)

Lewis further notes that in the mid 1990s, attention was focused on providing palliative care (especially after the publication of a report by the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Science, entitled, Approaching Death.And Lewis writes:

“[The report] identified four broad deficiencies in the care of people with incurable conditions: too may suffered from the failure of caregivers to offer effective palliative and supportive care; from caregivers who pursued aggressive treatment known to be ineffectual and even harmful to the dying patient; from regulations and other issues that frustrated the administration of adequate pain control; from fragmented organization that complicated the coordination of care; from Medicare hospice benefits requirements that could not be reconciled with the progression of many terminal illnesses that lack the steady progression of incurable cancer; from fee structures that induced overuse of procedural services but underuse of patient management and supportive services; from deficiencies in the education of health professionals that meant they did not know how to adequately care for dying patients; and finally from insufficient research (biomedical, clinical, epidemiological, and health services) into end-of-life care.”

(Page 117)

Palliative care is defined by the author as the alleviation or mitigation of suffering, while palliative medicine is recognized as the management of patients in the throes of far-advanced diseases for whom the focus of care is enhancing quality of life. However, in present-day America, both the government and the healthcare industry appear to staunchly resist the focus on palliative care in favor of generating revenue of the massive medical industry:

“Under Medicare, home care programs did best, but for cost reasons, they used nursing homes for inpatient purposes. These homes, however lacked proper pain control services . . . Physicians tended to resist involvement in hospice programs, often referring only for the home support they offered…Medicare regulations sharpened physician opposition by requiring that patients be classified as terminal before admission to the hospice and the recommendations of the hospice team take precedence over the physician’s.

“Hospices were often in competition for referrals with area hospitals, nursing homes and home health agencies in a period when health care as a whole was facing financial cutbacks resulting form the government’s wish to contain expenditures…Educated, middle-class people disproportionately used the hospice programs. Neither ethnic minorities nor rural patients had adequate access to them…

“Two decades after the first hospices came into being in the United States, conventional health care structures were apparently more able to co-opt hospice than hospice was able to change traditional medical care.”

(Pages 138-139)

Lewis writes in a clear and straight-forward manner and does not skirt difficult topic areas, choosing instead to open the eyes of his readers to the fact that sometimes the best medicine is resisting scientific intervention and providing comfort until the hour of death.

In addition to the illuminating information on palliative care and ways that physicians might integrate it into patient-plans, Medicine and Care also contains excellent chapters on the public debate involving pain control and euthanasia and the current state of the ‘right-to die’ movement (which grabbed international headlines recently in the Terri Schiavo case).

Readers and students should pay careful attention: The issues raised Lewis are not going away anytime soon.

Recommended as a primary text in courses that address new approaches to caring for the terminally ill. Further recommended to Health Science libraries as a general reference text – an in depth exploration of medical, sociological and philosophical issues focused on how to help people die in peace and with dignity.

by Frank Aiello

© Frank Aiello. All rights reserved.

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Frank Aiello is an attorney who has practiced law in California since the 1970s, including criminal defense, civil and probate work. He holds a History degree from the University of California at Berkeley, and a Law degree from Hastings College of the Law in San Francisco; he has also studied Anthropology, Sociology and Political Science extensively. Reach him via The Electric Review.

Also Recommended From Oxford

HUMAN BRAIN ANATOMY IN COMPUTERIZED IMAGES. Second Edition. Hanna Damasio. Oxford University Press. Oxford’s place as an academic publisher is personified by this medical science selection: In short, this book is about understanding the makeup of the human brain, a cell-by-cell scientific dissection of our quest for knowledge, this academic testament to our insatiable need to perfect an understanding of the human mind. Here, Damasio presents a compilation of normal brain scans that have been created through the expert anlayis of three-dimensional magnetic resonance images. This title is noteworthy because of the sharp and concrete detail with which it allows the reader to peer into the dimensions of the brain and then assess the varied depths of its neurological landscape.

Recommended as a teaching text in all Radiology and Nuerology courses that dedicate themselves to interpretations of brain-scan images. Further recommended to all practicing Radiologists an in-office reference source with practical value.

CAMPBELL’S OPERATIVE ORTHAPEDICS. 10th Edition. In 4 Volumes, with CD-ROM. S. Terry Canale. Mosby.

Campbell’s Operative enjoys an esteemed reputation in surgical circles — for this biblical reference is all-inclusive and contains the most recent data available on invasive orthopedic procedures. Here, Dr. Canale (Campbell Clinic University of Tennessee) and his co-writers analyze over 1,800 surgical procedures in full and comprehensive detail. These four-volumes feature an amazing 9,000 illustrations and graphics which are designed to direct the surgeon through the often delicate intricacies of these procedures. There is literally something for a reviewer to expand on within very page of this text, but the thing that stands out is in the fact that the writers offer multiple treatment approaches for many of the conditions: the lesson here is that the treating physician should tailor therapy to the individual patient and not fall into a routine when presented with typical clinical problems. Also, there is new research and analysis of hip fractures, which will prove especially meaningful to doctors with vast geriatric practices. In addition, the data on elbow and wrist arthroscopy offers sound alternatives for physicians whose focus is sports medicine and injury (or injury related to repetitive motion). Note: The CD-ROM is an added bonus, as it features video clips of ten procedures that are detailed in the text — creating a hands-on lecture on video thus allowing the practicing surgeon to absorb this information into the deepness of the mind for long-lasting retention.

PHOTOAGING. Edited by Darrell S. Rigel. Robert A. Weiss. Henry W. Lim. Jeffrey S. Dover. Marcel Dekker.

This collection of treatises by some of the leading voices in Dermatological Science examine the effects of the sun on the aging process of skin, looking at the phenomenon in connection with the various treatments clinicians can use to combat symptoms and pathology.

The authors, led by Darrell Rigel (a Professor of Dermatology at New York University School of Medicine) do an exceptional job looking at photoaging in comprehensive terms, beginning their text by exploring the reasons why skin ages in the first place. From here, we are led into a discussion of the effects of UV rays on the human body. It is believed that long-term exposure to UV is at the root of photoaging, and the authors do a fine job is dissecting this topic, instructing the physician on what to look for in the patient who presents with sun-compromised skin (further speaking to how clinicians should approach the study of the effects of UV on the skin).

In addition, a full analysis of all available treatments doctors can use to help restore damaged skin is included (along with achapter reviewing the particular legal issuespertinent tophysicians who treat patients with photoaged skin).

The comprehensive nature of this text gives it immediate, broad-based reference value to physician, student and researcher. The best aspect of Photoaging is that it deals with the whole of the subject in a detailed and well-organized format. Although it will be of deep value to practicing Dermatologists, the book does a good job in addressing the subject in terms that will be meaningful to the internist and primary care physician as well.

All available treatment options have been examined, with vital chapters on Chemical Peels, Ablative Laser Resurfacing and Fat Transplantation. However, the most timely chapter expands on the use of Botulinum Toxin A in Photoaging, as Bo-Tox is being used more frequently across the country to combat sagging skin. Since patients are likely to be coming to their doctors requesting Bo-Tox treatments more and more in the future, doctors need to have a full understanding of what this course of therapy entails.

Moreover, the authors have also taken the time to address the fact that differences in patient skin require the doctor to tailor treatments to individual needs and genetics – in short, this is not a “one size fits all” area of medicine, and these authors do a laudable job in bringing the point across.

Recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Further recommended to all Dermatologists and internists as an in-office reference presenting cutting-edge research and discussion on the effects of photoaging on human skin.

COLOR ATLAS OF COSMETIC OCULOFACIAL SURGERY. William PD Chen. Jemshed A. Khan. Clinton D. McCord Jr. Butterworth Heinemann.

This text sets the standard in the field of Oculofacial Surgery, addressing this burgeoning field in comprehensive terms.

In Color Atlas, Chen and his co-authors (each recognized authorities) have put together a benchmark text on the subject of facial surgery. Beginning with clear direction on how to approach the preliminary examination of the patient, the authors deftly move into the anatomical structure of the eyelid. At this point, the reader begins exploration of topics such as preoperative preparation and safely anesthetizing the patient.

By formatting the text in this step-by-step manner, the authors work to build a sound and solid foundation which lets the reader absorb the finer points of oculofacial surgery. Accordingly, this is where the meat of the text is found: Chen, Khan and McCord provide vital counsel in all phases of reconsturctive surgery, touching on the latest advancements in technique and treatment.

Physicians who access Color Atlas will receive expert instruction on Botox application and laser surgery, as well as laser resurfacing procedures to be used in conjunction with drug therapy. There is also an in depth chapter on Asian blepharoplasty with cross-sectional line drawings that note the differences between the Asian and Caucasian upper eyelid structure – a segment that allows the surgeon to study the intricate nature of this facial region in detail before scalpel ever touches skin. Well-used illustrations abound, including line-drawings and color frames which address anatomy as well as surgical methods.

In Color Atlas, Chen and his co-authors have provided a deeply layered text: this book will be looked on as “the authority” in the realm of Oculofacial Surgery for decades to come.

Recommended as in office reference for plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists and head/neck surgeons. Also recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Finally, Color Atlas would be a sensible choice as a teaching text in any course addressing oculofacial surgical techniques.

Of Related Interest

PELVIC FLOOR DISORDERS. Alain P. Bourcier, PT. Edward J. McGuire, MD. Paul Abrams, MD. Elsevier/Saunders. Textbook that serves as the authoritative voice on afflictions of the pelvic floor, detailing the subject from multiple angles, with comment offered from urologists, specialized physical therapists, gynecologists and nurses coming together to create a thorough analysis of all facets of this complex and often misunderstood problem. Includes comprehensive coverage of all pelvic floor disorders (damage from childbirth, urinary incontinence in the elderly patient, post-prostatectomy incontinence, pediatric bedwetting, male/female sexual dysfunction, among several others). What’s really best about Pelvic is that it includes the basics — providing an overview of how the pelvic floor system works before exploring the myriad ways it can malfunction. By doing this, the authors stress the fact that a physician cannot competently address treatment unless he firsts understands the way this complex system of muscles is meant to function. Well-developed chapters provide direction on both diagnosis and treatment — with the emphasis on long-term management of symptoms.

Recommended for all urologists and nurse practitioners who deal with patients presenting with pelvic floor disorders. Further recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

ACUTE BRAIN AND SPINAL CORD INJURY. Evolving Paradigms and Management. Edited by Anish Bhardwaj. Dilantha B. Ellegala. Jeffrey R. Kirsch. Informa Healthcare.

How to manage the patient who presents with an acute brain or spinal cord injury has been an enduring challenge for neurologists since the first days of organized medicine. However, recent advances in both diagnostic procedures and therapeutic modalities have made this task less problematic (while in some cases offering patients better outcomes).

In Acute Brain and Spinal Cord Injury, the editors have built a vital ‘go-to’ text which serves as one-stop reference summarizing the latest advancements in the field. Accordingly, the text, divided into five primary points of focus, comprises an authoritative review of this ever-evolving area of study.

Section One is centered on Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), with analysis of cerebroprotective strategies in bedside management and pharmacologic coma in the treatment of TBI, in addition to a fine over-view of pediatric TBI. Section Two is dedicated to ischemic stroke, with in depth coverage of anticoagulation in ischemic stroke (in addition to angioplasty and stenting of cervical carotid, intracranial and vertebral arteries). Section Three is premised on itracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), including surgical management of ICH. Section Four spotlights subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), with detailed analysis of the use of anticonvulsants and corticosteroids in SAH. And Section Five reviews spinal cord injury, including discussion of both intraopertive and medical management of such traumas.

In this clear and polished scientific reportage, each section is designed to give a complete summary of how different spinal cord or brain injuries are to be diagnosed and treated, with comprehensive coverage of all pharmacotherapies (in addition to interventional and surgical treatment options).

A review of the latest research and laboratory trials that have taken place in the field has also been included, as readers are presented with the most up-to-date reference available on this highly nuanced and ever-changing sub-specialty.

Recommended to all neurologists and cerebrovascular surgeons as in-office reference for use in the direct treatment of patients. Further recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference with long-term research value. Instructors should note that this title would also prove useful as a classroom teaching text in advanced courses designed to prepare the student for a career in neurological medicine.   

by John Aiello

HIV INFECTION AND THE CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM. Editor: Giuseppe Barbaro. Karger.

In terms of cardiovascular studies, this marks a new slant on an old subject. Most cardiovascular texts confront the general mechanics of heart disease and review the most common disorders and causes the physician is likely to find in the course of his practice. However, HIV looks at cardiovascular disease from a different and highly specialized perspective, examining the affects the HIV Infection has on various forms of heart disease (most notably coronary artery disease and cardiomyopathy):

“A congestive (dilated) cardiomyopathy may be identified in both adult and pediatric AIDS patients. By echocardiography, the prevalence of cardiac muscle disease is 15% in HIV-positive patients. Most of these cases are idiopathic, for no specific opportunistic infection or neoplasm can be identified. Patients with symptomatic heart failure from dilated cardiomyopathy typically present late in the course of AIDS […]It is possible that cardiomyopathy and myocarditis are both immunologic phenomena resulting from HIV-containing lymphocytes in cardiac muscle…”

(Page 27)

As journalists or casual observers, most of us view AIDS in terms of the wasting of muscle that typically occurs as the disease progresses. Moreover, many of us are aware of the Karposi Sarcoma and the bouts of impaired immunity that plague those with the malady. However, this text shows its readers that AIDS has far-reaching affects on all the organ systems, often resulting in a deep reduction of heart function (this is even more common-place now that patients are living longer through advances in treatment).

Giuseppe Barbaro(University ‘La Sapienza,’ Rome) has done a terrific job in editing these chapters and tying the essays together. Part one of the text reviews AIDS related heart disease in terms of epidemiology, examining the different ways the disease attacks heart function. The rest of the book is dedicated to analysis on how the clinician should approach treatment (with valuable exploration into the interaction between antiretroviral therapies and various cardiac medications). A first-rate text written for the practicing clinician or researcher, HIV presents the latest data on the ways the AIDS virus masks and manifests itself in its attack on human tissue.

Recommended to Health Science libraries as a general reference on AIDS. Also recommended as a reference text for cardiologists or internists who see AIDS patients regularly. However, the highly specialized nature of this subject matter would make it inappropriate for the internist who does not treat AIDS patients.

HIV AND AGING. Edited by Sharon Dian Lee. Informa Healthcare.

HIV has been on the national stage for nearly 25 years, an insidious disease that has defied a cure and confounded clinicians from around the world. Still, the recent advent of powerful antiretroviral medications has given renewed hope to many while giving rise to a new challenge in medicine – namely how doctors should proceed with treating HIV-positive patients in the midst of the aging process. In this well-balanced text edited by Sharon Dian Lee (University of Kansas) and featuring contributions from the leading researchers in the field, readers are given a thorough overview of the “known effects” that HIV (and the most common medications used to treat the affliction) have on the older patient. Initially, Lee and her co-authors examine the impact HIV has on the delicate balance of the immune system as it relates to the older or aging patient. From here, they move promptly through the grand labyrinth of the body, analyzing how HIV infiltrates the different systems of the aging body (with pertinent discussion of the nuerologic, cardiovascular, endocrine, renal and pulmonary systems, in addition to analysis of  psychiatric and oncological considerations relating to the HIV patient). There are a multitude of interesting aspects to this text, but none is more engaging than the exploration of similarities between the changes that take place in the aging immune system and that of the HIV-infected immune system. Also, the information that’s included on the impact that various HIV medications have on heart-health is particularly important, since the aging patient is particularly naturally susceptible to various forms of cardiovascular disease (thus, cardiologists who treat older HIV patients would be well-served to review the studies featured here and then apply them directly to patient care).

Recommended to all internists who treat HIV patients in various age groups. Additionally, this volume is highly recommended to all Health Science libraries in that it offers ground-breaking research in an area of HIV study that has, to date, been over-looked. 

by John Aiello

HANDBOOK OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE. 4^th Edition. Edited by: Rajesh Pahwa. Kelly E. Lyons. Informa Healthcare.

Diseases which attack the cognitive abilities of the brain (namely Alzheimer’s and Parkinson diseases) remain medicine’s greatest challenge, as scientists struggle to create practical treatment options for afflictions that often completely destroy the individual’s quality of life.

In this text, now in its 4^th edition, the authors have created a resource which dissects its subject matter in a way that promotes in depth understanding of an ever-evolving area of focus.

Here, Pahwa (University of Kansa Medical Center) and Lyons (University of Kansa Medical Center) offer their readers an intimate exploration of Parkinson’s Disease, with the latest information on a multitude of topics and sub-topics (including the pathology, neurochemistry and etiology of the malady) – the ultimate goal to demonstrate to the reader that effectively treating this disease takes an integrated approach on the part of the physician (who must apply his understanding of the body-whole to the inner-workings of the brain in order to treat the neurological abnormalities prevalent in Parkinson’s patients).

In this text, the authors have created an invaluable resource which allows doctors and caregivers to aggressively manage symptoms while simultaneously enriching the patient’s daily life.

During the last 2 decades, there have been great advancements in the treatment of Parkinson’s. Accordingly, Pahwa and Lyons take diligent care to illuminate readers to the fact that effective management of this disease requires a multi-pronged approach (incorporating pharmacologic and surgical options with rehabilitation techniques as a means to help patients recover waning motor skills).

In Handbook of Parkinson’s Disease, the editors do a note worthy job of stitching together the leading voices in the field, meshing the latest research studies with impactive analysis of the human body (and brain function). The result is a treatise that shows readers that effective management of Parkinson’s patients must advocate a muti-focused treatment approach – one that looks to mitigate crippling symptoms in order to keep patients as independent as possible.

Recommended as an in-office reference to all internists and neurologists who maintain Parkinson practices. In addition, this handbook would also prove useful for advanced students in the classroom, since it serves as the authoritative voice on both the treatment and diagnosis of Parkinson’s. Finally, recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. 

by John Aiello

MAYO CLINIC INTERNAL MEDICINE. Concise Textbook. Thomas M. Habermann. Amit K. Ghosh. Mayo Clinic Scientific Press/Informa Healthcare.

When readers see the words Mayo Clinic they immediately think reliability and expert analysis – for Mayo Clinic publications are synonymous with providing succinct yet sharply detailed briefings on both common and atypical medical problems. Accordingly, this tome serves as the best ‘concise textbook’ we have seen – a masterful summary of the core study that comprises the specialty known as ‘internal medicine.’ Here, readers will find expertly written summaries of all major diseases and disorders related to the primary organ systems of the body (in addition to complete diagnosis and treatment guides). Moreover, the text has specifically been formatted from the ‘evidence-based’ perspective so as to assist doctors in making the best treatment-decisions for their patients. Topics of coverage include cardiology; critical care medicine; endocrinology; gastroenterology; geriatrics; hypertension; infectious diseases; oncology; vascular diseases; and nephrology (to name selected high-points). Going further, this volume has been augmented with a special section to assist physicians preparing for the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination – material that provides readers with a practical ‘staging area’ from which they can test both their clinical skills and their understanding of the internal labyrinths of the human body. Finally, each chapter contains a thorough section on drug therapies (as they relate to the particular organ system being discussed) – information which will not only save physicians time but will also help them to find the best medicine for their patients (as side effects and drug interactions are clearly detailed). In keeping with the grand tradition of the Mayo Clinic, this volume will serve as the centerpiece of the practicing physician’s library – a book destined to sport a tattered spine and furled pages after countless consultations.

Recommended to all internists as an-office resource. Further recommended to physicians preparing for the USMLE as a pertinent refresher course teaching the foundations of internal medicine.  

by John Aiello

Of Related Interest

COMPREHENSIVE MANAGEMENT OF HIGH RISK CARDIOVASCULAR PATIENTS. Antonio M. Gotto, Jr. Peter P. Toth. Forward by Eugene Braunwald. Informa Healthcare.

Like the Mayo Clinic’s manual on internal medicine spotlighted above, this book provides deep discussion into the whole of cardiovascular disease (including heart disease, peripheral arterial disease and stroke). This release marks an important contribution to scientific literature (as it relates to the study of the human heart) in that it looks to explore the medical management of those patients who are likely to succumb to heart  disease (which remains the leading cause of death in the United States). However, rather than only look at treatment options after onset of disease, the authors instead carefully examine ways the physician can evaluate risk factors and early indicators in those patients who are at high-risk for falling victim to a heart attack or stroke. Topics of coverage include analysis of primary risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, lipid control, obesity); the introduction of pharmacologic treatments in the medical management of cardiovascular patients; stroke prevention; current therapies in congestive heart failure; women and coronary artery disease; and the incidence of cardiovascular disease in racial and ethic minorities. Notwithstanding the impeccable presentation and the wealth of new scientific data this volume presents, what makes it a true breakthrough in terms of health publishing is the proactive stance it takes – simply, the idea here is not for doctors to just react after the onset of disease, but instead, to be able to expertly evaluate early warning signs and factors of predisposition as a means to achieving science’s ultimate goal – to prevent cardiac-related death.

Recommended as an in-office resource for all cardiologists, internists and researchers dedicated to the study of the human heart. In addition, recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

by John Aiello

DISEASES OF THE COLON. Editors: Steven D. Wexner. Neil Stollman. Informa Healthcare.

Steven Wexner (Cleveland Clinic Hospital) and Neil Stollman (University of California, San Francisco) serve as two of the foremost experts in the country on diseases of the colon. Here, the pair brings their immense knowledge to the table in stunning fashion via this in depth text that examines the topic from both surgical and medical-management perspectives. Diseases of the colon have garnered significant media attention during the last 20 years, as physicians take a more aggressive approach towards preventing the development of colon cancer through regular colonoscopy examinations (in addition to teaching patients to be aware of changing patterns within their bodies). Consequently, when detected early, malignancies of the colon are treatable. In this text, the authors present an authoritative summary of diseases both big and small which strike the lower region of the digestive tract. Topics of coverage include both benign and malignant colonic tumors; irritable bowel syndrome; ulcers; Crohn’s Disease; constipation; diverticular disease; megacolon; anal fissures; hemorrhoids; and ulcerative colitis (to name random highpoints). Additionally, the authors make the effort to detail recent advances in radiological testing that have made the diagnosis of patients more effective. Moreover, Wexner and Stollman discuss how advancements in surgical techniques have given practitioners the ability to offer patients a better chance at recovery and a more enhanced quality of life. Diseases of the Colon is noted not only for its breadth, but also because it explores this burgeoning area of study from both the clinical and surgical perspectives, thus granting readers a truly comprehensive analysis of the whole colo-rectal region.

Recommended to all colorectal surgeons and gastroenterologists as an in-office reference which presents the most up-to-date information on colon-based disease. In addition, instructors who teach in this subject area should strongly consider this as a primary class text, recommended for its ability to examine the subject from both surgical and clinical perspectives. 

by John Aiello

Of Related Interest

MAYO CLINIC GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY BOARD REVIEW. Editor: Stephen C. Hauser. Co-Editors: Darrell S. Pardi. John J. Poterucha. Mayo Clinic Scientific Press/Informa Healthcare.

Now in its second edition, this book serves as a handy refresher course for the student or physician looking to gain certification in the field. Basically, Mayo Clinic Gastroenterology provides a comprehensive summary of the major areas of this region, offering cased-based presentations and an array of illustrations and references meant to test the reader’s long-term retention of the material. Topics of coverage include GERD; Barrett’s Esophagus; esophageal cancer; peptic ulcers; gastritis; afflictions of the small bowel; diverticulitis; GI infections; GI tract bleeding; and gastrointestinal manifestations of systemic disease (to name random high-points). For a study-guide/board review to be relevant, it must contain a full analysis of its subject matter in a format that effortlessly tests the reader on core-points of understanding. Moreover, the goal of such books should not merely be to promote memorization, but instead, to stimulate a deep and intricate relationship with the discipline as the reader moves toward complete mastery of the material. Accordingly, Mayo Clinic Gastroenterology is just such a manual, providing students with a layered point of reference that dissects the GI tract in an incisive style while further promoting in depth study of this fascinating area of medical science.

Highly recommended as a go-to-guide for all students and clinicians preparing for their board and recertification exams in Gastroenterology.

Order from Informa Healthcare.

by John Aiello

OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY IN CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH. Evelyn Regar. Ton G.  van Leeuwen. Patrick W. Serruys. Informa Healthcare.

For years, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) was a staple in ophthalmologic diagnosis, as this intricate light-based technology allows the physician to obtain high resolution images of human tissues. In addition, this technique has recently been used in the frontline assessment of the cardiovascular system, specifically engaged to study the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. In turn, this text provides a one-of-a-kind summary of this burgeoning area of focus. Topics of coverage include foundational background of OCT; the physics and technical principles of OCT in relation to cardiovascular research; the role of OCT in diagnosing coronary artery disease; and discussion of ways OCT can fit into the future of cardiovascular medicine. As we move headlong into the 21^st century, atherosclerosis continues to pose great challenges for the physician, as heart disease and stroke kill millions worldwide each year. Consequently, medicine must continue to evolve, searching for new ways to combat these destructive forces. It should be noted that the last 20 years have seen significant advances in terms of heart disease treatments, as lipid-lowering drugs now save a significant number of lives. However, the work of the healthcare collective is not done, and researchers still must strive to accomplish more in terms of treatment and diagnosis.  Accordingly, OCT marks an important step forward, allowing radiologists to obtain crystal-clear images of artery pathways in order to assess plaque build-up and the progression of disease. In sum, this text provides an authoritative review of OCT in cardiovascular medicine, further examining possibilities for advancements in the way physicians approach treatment of patients with atherosclerosis.

Recommended to both researchers and clinicians whose practice areas focus on cardiovascular medicine. Further recommended to all Health Science libraries as an indispensable long-term reference.

by John Aiello

SLEEP DISORDERS AND NEUROLOGIC DISEASE. 2^nd Edition. Editor: Antonio Culebras. Informa Healthcare.

This title explores the distinct link between sleep and brain function, creating a definitive resource for physicians and psychologists who treat patients who present with troublesome sleep disorders.

Now in its second edition, Culebras’ text sets out to analyze in detail the neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neuroclinical aspects of sleep. In the course of this journey, the experts contributing to this volume conclude that all primary sleep problems surface as a result of brain dysfunction (either caused by structural abnormalities such as brain tumors; behavioral inconsistencies such as in insomnia; degenerative events as seen in fatal familial insomnia; neurochemical imbalances as found in narcoleptic patients; or, finally, neuromuscular malfunctions as seen in sleep apnea).

In the course of constructing Sleep Disorders, Culebras covers a wide-range of information, including sleep medicine and Neurosomnology; sleep disorders and mental retardation; insomnia and Circadian Dysrythmias; insomnia and neurology; motor disorders and sleep; sleep and epilepsy; sleep apnea and stroke; restless leg syndrome; and the role of melatonin in sleep processes (to name only random high-points).

Among all the books out there outlining sleep disorders, Culebras’ text distinguishes itself because of its ability to bring itself current with advances in the field. This second edition includes very important information on emerging connections between patterns of sleep apnea and various cardiovascular abnormalities (like stroke, hypertension and heart disease). These findings are important because they teach physicians to look at sleep problems not only as isolated issues, but instead, as factors intertwined with the general health of the body as a whole.

Accordingly, Sleep Disorders looks at diagnosis, treatment and management of myriad sleep problems – an authoritative resource that will likely come to be the ‘go-to-guide’ for neurologists and internists as they investigate questions of sleep and the human brain.

Recommended as in-office text for all physicians dedicated to treating patients with sleep disorders. It is further recommended to researchers in this subject area for the new data it imparts. Finally, recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

by John Aiello

Also Notable From Informa This Quarter

CHRONIC ABDOMINAL AND VISCERAL PAIN. Theory and Practice. Editors: Pankaj Jay Pasricha. William D. Willis. G.F. Gebhart. Informa Healthcare.

Belly pain leads millions of patients world-wide to seek medical attention, a common symptom that can have many causes and many ramifications. In this text, the authors boldly seek to unlock the mysteries of the ‘brain-gut connection,’ looking to offer analysis of how psychological factors coupled with social issues can contribute significantly to episodes of pain in the visceral region. Chronic Abdominal collects research from the leading international thinkers in the field who come together to expand on a topic that now is estimated to effect one-in-four U.S. citizens. Topics of coverage include diagnosis and treatment of irritable bowel syndrome; functional abdominal pain; dyspepsia; non-cardiac related chest pain; and pain originating in the pelvic region (to name major points of interest). Noted for its depth and exhaustive research which bring myriad realms of medicine great amounts of new information, in turn teaching physicians that episodes of belly pain (without obvious cause) require careful evaluation of the body as a whole.

Recommended to all Gastroenterologists and internists for its ability to cast a ‘modern eye’ on treatment of chronic abdominal pain. Finally, recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

by John Aiello

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN THE ELDERLY. Third Edition. Edited by Wilbert S. Aronow and Jerome L. Fleg. Marcel Dekker.

This manual is dedicated to the subject of Cardiovascular Disease in the elderly, stressing the fact that an elderly patient presents with unique needs requiring the physician to tailor treatments accordingly. Cardiovascular deals with myriad topics, and begins with a step-by-step discussion of the effects of age on the Cardiovascular System, including a comprehensive chapter on echocardiographic analysis in older patients without heart disease. Part two of Cardiovascular provides a deep exploration of Coronary Artery Disease. At this juncture of the text, the reader is given direction on how to assess the varied risk factors of Cardiovascular Disease and is taught how to study its epidemiology. Chapter topics include Systemic Hypertension in the elderly patient, the effect of Diabetes Mellitus on the Cardiovascular System and an enlightening discussion on when the physician should pursue drug treatment for hyperlipidemia in an aged patient. At this point, the reader is equipped with enough information to begin exploration into specific aspects of Coronary Artery Disease, and the remainder of Cardiovascular investigates these phenomena in detail (including chapters on Angina, Heart Attack, Valvular Disease, Endocarditis, Heart Failure, Ventricular Arrhythmias and Cardiomyopathy). In addition, Aronow (Chief of the Cardiology Clinic at New York Medical College) and Fleg (Scientific Project Officer National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute) are careful to include pertinent discussion of Cerebrovascular Disease and Syncope in the elderly, as well as invaluable perspective on quality of life issues that often surface in older patients with heart disease. Comprehensive in nature and impeccably researched, Cardiovascular is recommended as a teaching text because its very design and point-of-view forces the young doctor to realize that heart disease treatments need to conform to each particular patient demographic. In this regard, the elderly patient requires specific consideration and assessment as suitable courses of medical therapy are developed.

Recommended as a class text in all courses teaching assessment of Cardiovascular problems with an emphasis on the geriatric patient. Further recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

by John Aiello

THE INNATE IMMUNE RESPONSE TO INFECTION. Edited by Stefan H.E. Kaufmann. Ruslan Medzhitov. Siamon Gordon. ASM Press.

ASM Press, a world leader in the dissemination of scientific data detailing the way the human body reacts to threats of infection, offers a detailed study of this phenomenon with The Innate Immune Response To Infection.

As inferred by its title, this selection analyzes the way we naturally respond to infectious agents in order to defend our organ systems against disease-predators. This volume combines the fundamental concepts of molecular and cellular biology and then aligns these disciplines to create a text that is dedicated to exploration of how the body’s natural immune response is activated to fight off various infectious agents.

The Innate Immune is notable because it combines the many different aspects inherent to this area of study, looking into various aspects of immunology, parasitology and virology to fully examine the evolution of the human immune response. From a scientific researcher’s point of view, this data is of increasing importance, not only because it will assist in the development of better ways to prevent the transmission of infectious disease through vaccine, but also because it should shed light on better ways to utilize immunosuppressant-type drug therapies with regard to transplant patients.

Recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Suitable as a teaching text in molecular and cellular biology courses which explore the way the immune system functions. Finally, should be read by professional researchers and immunologists since it serves as a collection of the finest expert analysis on the subject.

THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE. Second Edition. Steven E. Diaz. Series editor: Daniel K. Onion. Jones and Bartlett.

This streamlined, pocket-sized manual is premised on providing detailed information to physicians and staff in the Emergency Room. Perhaps in no other hospital setting (save the trauma-based operating room) is the environment more kinetic (with cases plagued by an array of endless complications). Consequently, ER staff must possess the temperament to withstand myriad pressures while simultaneously being able to offer immediate diagnosis and frontline treatment. As I said, it’s one of the most difficult jobs in all of medicine. Here, Diaz (Dartmouth Medical School) presents the ultimate resource for the ER physician – a manual of authoritative scope meant to be used in the midst of patient care. What’s most stunning about Black Book is how comprehensive it is given its modest pocket-sized format. However, even though the packaging is modest – content is not. Instead, Diaz offers full coverage of the most common problems encountered by ER staff, including chapters on myriad cardiovascular conditions (CHF, Heart Block, emergent hypertensive events, infarction, arrhythmia, shock); matters of the Endocrine System; conditions of the Gastrointestinal System (Gallbladder Disease, Pancreatitis); surgical emergencies (such as bowel obstruction and aneurysm); matters of Nephrology; and matters of Neurology (to name but a sampling). The text is notable for its in depth organization and writing style: The information is at all times delivered in a no-frills manner that lends itself to reference while ‘on-the-fly.’ Simply, a doctor in an ER setting confronted with half-a-dozen emergent cases does not have time to search for the data he needs; instead, he expects necessary information to be readily accessible. Accordingly, readers will find clear indexing and chapter outlines which set forth information like cause of condition, epidemiology, primary symptoms, laboratory protocol and ER management – Black Book serving as the literal ER physician’s ‘best friend’ as he wades his way through the uncertainties of medicine’s frontlines.

Recommended to all Emergency Room physicians as an in-office reference. If nothing else, hospitals big and small should make a point of keeping multiple copies of this handbook accessible for staff use. In addition, instructors teaching the nuances of Emergency Room care in order to prepare students for ER rotation should consider this book as a supporting class text, notable for its cogent and thoughtful presentation.

by John Aiello

A PALLIATIVE ETHIC OF CARE. Clinical Wisdom At Life’s End. Joseph J. Fins. Jones and Bartlett.

In light of the Terri Schiavo case that captivated and divided the nation for months, this textbook cannot be ignored; bluntly, it should be required reading in every single nursing program throughout the United States. Palliative Ethic examines the role the health care provider should play in tending to the dying patient, in turn opening up detailed introspection on how to best make the terminally ill comfortable as they confront the ultimate test of moving from the living state into death. Even more than doctors, nurses bear the primary responsibility for comforting both the gravely ill patient and their family as this difficult process naturally moves forward. In his work, Fins (Cornell University) does an exemplary job of looking at both the myriad ethical and clinical questions that doctor, nurse and patient will come upon together. In essence, the idea here is to be able to provide humane care for the patient, addressing both physical and psychological pain in direct and compassionate terms.

Recommended as a primary text in courses that address care for the terminally ill. Further recommended to Health Science libraries as a general reference text exploring medical, sociological and philosophical issues of patient care.

Of Related Interest

100 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT BREAST SURGERY. Joseph J. Disa. Marie Czenko Kuechel. Jones and Bartlett.

Any woman going through breast surgery (either for therapeutic or cosmetic reasons) will benefit from reading this title (which is part of the acclaimed Jones and Bartlett consumer series). About Breast Surgery discusses the topic of surgical invasion of the breast in broad detail (including types of surgery, precautionary measures for the patient to consider, how to locate a competent surgeon and psychological issues of which to be aware). The fact that American women are under such societal pressures to look a certain way means that the psychological ramifications that accompany breast surgery must not be ignored. Readers will find this discussion invaluable to their complete comprehension of the subject as the authors strive to help you understand – and accept – any procedure you might undertake.

Recommended to all pharmacies that feature health-related book racks: this title stands out for its well-developed focus and its dedication to educating the consumer/patient.

MEDICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF CHRONIC ILLNESS AND DISABILITY. Third Edition. Donna Falvo. Jones and Bartlett.

Too many times, doctors and care-givers, over-stressed and under-staffed, fail to truly realize the psychological obstacles a person in the throes of chronic illness is trying to overcome. In this regard, Falvo’s text is ground-breaking: In addition to detailing the medical aspects of illness/disability, Falvo is careful to cover the mental impact of disease on the individual — reminding the reader that the mind and body do, indeed, go together.

In chapter four, the author writes on vision impairments, noting:

“Vision loss often precipitates a sense of fear and reduced personal competence, which may result in isolation and social withdrawal ….Adjustment to loss of vision depends on many factors, including the degree of loss and the age at which the individual becomes visually impaired. Those who are not congenitally blind, for example, have not had the opportunity to learn concepts such as distance, depth, proportion, and color…..”

(Page 138)

The lesson here is to encourage the care-giver to understand that, beyond the physical manifestations of illness, there is a second wall to penetrate — the wall of the mind. A person who has fallen sick is often bitter, angry and, many times, resistant to treatment. Therefore, it is the obligation of the health care provider to take steps to approach a treatment plan only after this factor has been duly considered.

Recommended to nurses in all sub-specialties as an on-the-job reference tool. Further recommended to physical therapists who are seeing patients after major traumatic illness/injury (such as stroke). Recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Finally, might make an interesting crossover text for Sociology instructors exploring the impact of illness on the individual.

ARRHYTHMIA RECOGNITION. The Art of Interpretation. Tomas B. Garcia. Geoffrey T. Miller. Jones and Bartlett.

One of the most vital aspects to competent emergency medical care is for the health care provider to be able to recognize a heart arrhythmia and then provide quick and effective treatment. But that’s all much easier said then done — for this skill is one of the most difficult to master.

Arrhythmia by Garcia and Miller explores the subject in its entirety, offering clear and well-focused discussion on how the physician or cardiac-care nurse should approach the study of the heart’s rhythm and ways to detect life-threatening abnormalities.

The authors begin by introducing the material through an over-view of anatomy and physiology, then move quickly into analysis of the heart’s electrical system, including rhythm strips, calculating heart rate, arrhythmia recognition and electrocardiography. From here, we move into the different rhythm patterns of the heart, with in-depth investigation of Sinus rhythms, Atrial rhythms, Junctional rhythms, Ventricular rhythms, and heart block.

Garcia and Miller have done a comprehensive job in detailing the topic, discussing how and why the heart loses its ability to beat properly in addition to ways the health care professional should approach identification of the affliction. Notable for its full color graphic illustrations that assist in understanding the text descriptions, as well as for the hundreds of real-life rhythm strips that are included here as a seamless way to force the reader to immediately apply the lessons being learned.

Recommended to instructors in nursing courses dedicated to cardiac-care/intensive care nursing. Would also be highly useful to instructors teaching one of the cornerstones of paramedic/emergency-response care. Finally, recommended to Emergency Room physicians as a valuable ‘on-the-job’ resource that provides clear instruction on the interpretation of rhythm strips.

by John Aiello

With An Eye On the Child: The American Academy of Pediatrics

Any new mother or father is likely to be on information over-load, bombarded with various how-to manuals, in addition to so much motherly advice on the do’s and don’t of raising a child. After awhile, it all must seem daunting — it’s only a matter of time before these new parents have to scream “Enough!”

That’s where the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) comes in. The Academy (comprised of top Pediatricians and pediatric researchers throughout the country) publishes an extensive line of books meant to educate first-time parents on how best to care for their kids.

The AAP’s titles are notable for their long-term reference value and for their deep consumer focus — these books, written with the parent in mind, are easy to navigate and easy to understand: the key here is that the information is immediately accessible to the lay reader (and thus conducive to retention).

New parents are obviously under a great deal of stress, and few (if any) have extra time to search through a text to find answers to questions about how to best address their infant’s needs. In light of this fact, the AAP list comes together to build an impeccable reference foundation on myriad subjects. Yet, even though their subject matter is vast, the over-all purpose of these books remains singular: to make your child’s early years as healthful as possible.

Standout titles in the AAP catalog include:

YOUR BABY’S FIRST YEAR. Steven P. Shelov, Editor-in-Chief. Bantam Books and the American Academy of Pediatrics. This pocket reference, priced at only $6.99, should be in every new parent’s baby-bag — a rich and well-detailed resource that escorts the reader through the typical first year of a child’s life. Your Baby’s First includes a comprehensive month-by month guide that tells the parent what to expect, with specifics on growth patterns, behavior scenarios and development cycles. In addition, note the erudite instructions how to confront (and successfully navigate your way through) a pediatric medical emergency. Also, information on vaccination schedules, breast vs bottle-feeding and prevention of accidental poisoning is included. Finally, the segment on basic first-aid care is notable for data on children and choking – with guidance on how to guard against this danger.

An absolutely impeccable consumer reference. Version also available in Spanish.

GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SLEEP. George J. Cohen. Editor-in-Chief. Villard Books and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Like the Shelov title noted above, this book is a necessity for the fledgling parent, detailing the things child caretakers need to be aware of as the infant develops its sleeping pattern. Probably the most stressful thing a new parent has to cope with is getting the baby to sleep at regular times, and Cohen provides insightful direction on how a mother/father can help the infant get the rest it requires. In addition to myriad tips on how to survive the ordeal of getting your infant to sleep, this book’s provides pertinent data on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) — a well-publicized affliction that causes much consternation for new parents. Accordingly, Cohen’s analysis is quick and to the point and should alert a new parent on what to look for and what issues to examine (in dialogues with their pediatrician) so that they don’t fall victim to SIDS.

NEW MOTHER’S GUIDE TO BREASTFEEDING. Joan Younger Meek, Editor- in- Chief. Bantam Books and the American Academy of Pediatrics. There was recently some debate in pediatric wellness circles on whether breastfeeding was as important (and beneficial) to a baby as “old time” pediatricians had thought. But as Dr. Meek’s text so nicely illustrates, breastfeeding is indeed beneficial to the new-born, allowing maximum nutrition for the baby (as well as giving the first-time mother the chance to bond with her child and to get to know its personality and feeding patterns). Beyond this, information provided in this guide shows that breastmilk actually bolsters the infant’s immune system and helps the child fight off opportunistic illness. Among other topics, readers will find examples on how to hold/position the child during feedings, as well as advisement on how to wean a baby from breastfeeding. Version also available in Spanish.

GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S ALLERGIES AND ASTHMA. Michael J. Welch, Editor-in-Chief. Villard Books and the American Academy of Pediatrics. According to the most recent statistics, Asthma afflicts 5 million children in the United States, with allergies plaguing a whopping 50 million kids nation-wide. And as staggering as these numbers are, they grow every day, with new variations of mold, mildew and fungal allergies discovered annually. Thus, Dr. Welch’s guide to allergy and asthma as related to the child-patient is particularly relevant. Within this volume, readers will find comprehensive coverage of the triggers which spawn asthmatic and allergic reaction within the adolescent body. In addition to helping parents identify symptoms, triggers, treatment options and potential allergens, there is also valuable direction on how to explain these oft complicated conditions to the young patient. It is important to remember that these afflictions can often deprive children of the enjoyment of engaging in strenuous exercise, separating them from them classmates. With this in mind, Dr. Welch offers pertinent advice on how a parent can discuss these conditions with a child so that the youngster can then play an active role in helping to manage symptoms.

GUIDE TO TOILET TRAINING. Mark L. Wolraich, Editor-in-Chief. Bantam Books and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Wolraich and his contributors have done a handsome job is detailing this big event in the life of a child. Some psychologists believe that the way a youngster is toilet trained has the potential to impact their mental well-being as an adult. Consequently, it is imperative that parents realize this and take steps to make bathroom training as trauma-free as possible. Guide To Toilet Training is chock full of practical advice on how to help the child through the process. Topics covered include finding the best age to begin toilet training, how to manage accidents, how to approach bedwetting episodes, and ways to initiate toilet training when dealing with a resistant child. Well-written and presented with a delicate hand, this book belongs at every new parent’s (and grandparent’s) fingertips.

Even though we have reviewed these selections with the consumer in mind, we would recommend them to all public sector and community college librarians as well: these books create a true “community resource“ and deserve to be readily available to low-income readers via the public library system.

A MANUAL OF SYSTEMATIC EYELID SURGERY. Third Edition. J.R.O. Collin. Butterworth-Heinemann.

Collin (Moorfields Eye Hospital and Institute of Ophthalmology) is noted throughout the medical world for his in depth research into the human eye. In this manual, Collin (a talented writer and an expert Ophthalmologist ) weaves an expert narrative detailing the most common surgical eye procedures being performed today.

Accordingly, this text proves to be required reading for all practitioners in the field — noted for its crisp analysis and ordered format. Systematic begins with an overview of general eye anatomy and a survey of general medical principles (with an ocular focus). After a review of basic techniques of treatment, the reader embarks on a journey into the layered construction of the eye and ways that medicine has discovered to reduce patient suffering as it relates to Oculofacial afflictions. Moving forward, Systematic dissects the latest thinking on ectropion; entropion; trichiasis; ptosis; reconstructive surgery of the eyelid; lacrimal surgery; thyroid eye disease; and cosmetic surgery of the ocular region.

Moreover, Collin brings much new information to the third edition of his treatise, including a fine segment on eyelid tumor management (an aspect of the discipline that is quite delicate and requires the utmost care on the part of the physician). In addition to chronicling myriad advances in this area, Collin provides up-to-date discussion of orbital implants and socket surgery.

Readers will find Systematic sharply written and easy to navigate, with logical use of illustrations meant to illuminate key procedural points of the text. If Ophthalmologists were to chose a single office reference to help escort them through surgically based procedures, they wouldn’t go wrong by investing in this selection.

Recommended to practicing Ophthalmologists as in-office resource, a ‘go-to’ guide for eye surgeons designed for use in the midst of patient treatment. Systematic will also be of value to Plastic Surgeons, Oral/Maxillofacial Surgeons and Otolaryngologists as an in-office reference companion. Finally, this text would be a worthy study-aid for physicians seeking certification in the field — its clear-cut ‘step-at-a-time’ construction facilitates in depth understanding of a burgeoning field.

PATHOLOGY OF THE SKIN. 3rd Edition 2-Volume Set with CD-ROMS. Phillip H. McKee. J. Eduardo Calonje. Scott R. Granter. Mosby.

Now in its in its 3rd edition, this title is a major contribution to the study of skin pathology. Here, McKee and his co-authors present the reader with full and comprehensive analysis of the diseases which attack the skin.

Expert analysis begins at the onset as the authors first explore the structure and functions of skin (the largest organ within the human body). From this point, we are taken on a complete journey through the many different afflictions which are found at the body’s surface, including full discussion of Acantholytic disorders, inflammatory diseases of the subcutaneous fat, diseases of the oral mucosa, diseases of the genital skin, disorders of pigmentation, and Melanoma (only the short list of the topics covered). The text surveys each of these subjects in complete terms, moving slow and with certainty, with over 5,000 well-developed illustrations augmenting the most critical points of understanding.

These physician-authors done an exemplary job at capturing this material for both the academic and professional reader. Many texts in this field of study tend to be ‘either’ ‘or’ efforts: Either they are written for specialists in the field, or they are written for student-doctors and presented with too much classroom preponderance (and thus unsuitable for a doctor who needs to refer to the material in the quick course of patient treatment).

However, these writers have managed to avert this minefield, deftly creating a resource that is not only a perfect fit for physicians treating diseases of the skin (but is also a valuable teaching tool that can guide fellows seeking certification in the field ). The idea here is to foster a true understanding of a sometimes complicated area of medicine where early diagnosis is so vital to effective treatment.

Moreover, the cutting edge tone of this volume — comprised of the latest data on the subject — renders it invaluable to all medical science libraries. Among the many fine attributes of Pathology are the chapters on Melanoma and other cancerous conditions: with a large segment of the populous now reaching retirement age, the incidence of skin cancer is only likely to increase. Thus, is it is imperative for physicians practicing in this sub-specialty to be able to recognize the early signs of disease and pro-actively move toward treatment. Accordingly, this text creates a wonderful resource that will serve Dermatologists and Internists for years to come.

As noted, this is a benchmark reference in the field and should be housed in all Health Science libraries; simply, it sets the standard in publishing as related to the study of skin disease.

Of Related Interest

SURGERY OF THE SKIN. June K. Robinson. C. William Hanke. Roberta D. Sengelmann. Daniel Mark Siegel. Mosby. A perfect companion to McKee’s Pathology of The Skin, Surgery of the Skin sews together the latest data on the subject of invasive treatment of skin disease into one practical and all-inclusive text. In addition to the up-to-date data presented here, this selection features a bonus DVD-ROM that allows the surgeon to examine different surgical procedures through video clips and various illustrations (a vital tool in that it allows for practical application of the text itself). 95 contributing writers comprise the leading voices on the subject, and the full spectrum of surgical approaches to both common and complicated problems are explored within these pages. Included in this discussion are chapters on skin structure and surgical anatomy, aseptic technique, anesthesia and analgesia, Electrosurgery, Electrocoagulation, Cryosurgery, biopsy techniques, skin grafting, use of botulinum toxin type A in facial rejuvenation, and liposuction (to name but a few of the topics covered). Similar to the previous text, this is an important resource for Dermatologists and skin surgeons who are likely to see many more cases of skin cancer as the elderly population continues to increase over the next decade.

Also recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text for its long-term reference value.

Also Of Note From Elsevier

DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND. 3rd Edition. 2-Volume Set. Carol M. Rumack. Stephanie R. Wilson. J. William Charboneau. Jo-Ann Johnson. Mosby. This title is the authority in the field of ultrasound diagnosis as it relates to both the adult and child patient (which is exactly why it is used in so many radiology departments at centers throughout the world). This selection covers the subject in broad and definite terms, and boasts many features which has caused it to be first choice among health care providers who use ultrasound to detect disease and instigate treatment. Diagnostic Ultrasound provides a nice over-view of the process of ultrasound itself, and then moves quickly into the core material, which includes in depth analysis of abdominal, pelvic and thoracic sonography; small parts, cartoid artery and peripheral vessel sonography; obstetric and fetal sonography; and a full analysis of pediatric sonography. In addition to discussion of the different disorders inherent to each particular region of the body (as noted), the authors have designed a unique feature that incorporates a series of image collages into the text that depict different ultrasound findings of the same disorder. As medicine continues to evolve and become more high-tech, this feature allows the radiologist to teach himself to look beyond the surface and explore test results with an eye to locating abnormalities which at first might not be obvious.

Recommended to hospital radiology departments both big and small as the definitive reference in the field. Also recommended to all Health Science libraries a general reference text.

Of Related Interest

VASCULAR DIAGNOSIS. M. Ashraf Mansour. Nicos Labropoulos. Saunders. In line with the previous entry, Vascular Diagnosis collects the work of over 50 experts in the field who address the current thinking on non-invasive vascular diagnosis (for cerebrovascular disease, peripheral atherosclerotic occlusive disease, intra-abdominal occlusive disease, venous disorders, and aneurysms). Vascular is formatted for practical application and meant for use by the physician in the course of diagnosis and treatment. Accordingly, the authors have organized the material into three sections (the vascular laboratory and principles of vascular diagnosis; collecting useful images of the different regions of the vascular system; and a well-thought-out series of chapters on miscellaneous topics relating to administrative organization). This text boasts many standout features, including discussion of cerebrovascular color-flow scanning, MR and CT angiography, and vein-graft evaluation. In addition to the up-dated analysis of the most recent thinking in the field, Vascular benefits from the fact that it is written with the practicing physician in mind – the format conducive to quick referral by the practitioner. In short, this text has a singular and well-focused mission: to help escort the radiologist and surgeon and clinical cardiologist through the great labyrinth of the human vascular system.

Similar to Rumack’s treatise, this book is recommended to vascular surgeons and radiologists specializing in vascular disease as the definitive reference in the field. Also recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF SLEEP MEDICINE. E-edition/4th Edition. Meir H. Kryger. Thomas Roth. William C. Dement. Saunders. The inability to sleep — along with backache and headache — is the most common complaint for which patients consult their doctors. This magnificent tome (which comes with an option to engage a continually updated on-line reference data bank) examines all relevant topics related to disorders which both create and exacerbate our inability to sleep properly. After a tidy over-view of the physiology/mechanisms of sleep and the underlying principles of sleep medicine, we are taken on a tour of the etiology of sleep disorders and the many different reasons that can cause a person not to be able to gain the rest they need. In addition to a very interesting and in depth breakdown of circadian rhythms and how genetics impact these internal cycles, the reader gains deep insight into various new paths of thinking as related to the subject of treating/evaluating the sleep deprived patient. Specifically, there is research ongoing that looks to a link between sleep-breathing disorders and Cardiovascular abnormalities — information that is vital in helping doctors treat patients who might present with sleep apnea and cardiac problems concurrently. Readers will also find invaluable discussion on the effectiveness of sleep medications for treating some insomnias, as well as a full dissection of neurological disorders and sleep (with a nice section on dementia). This selection, published under the Saunders imprint, is a one-stop source for the physician and contains research on the primary causes and treatments for sleep disorders. Accordingly, this would serve as an equally useful in-office reference for the internist, primary care physician and sleep disorders specialist.

Also recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text.

CRITICAL CARE TOXICOLOGY. Diagnosis and Management of the Critically Poisoned Patient. Jeffrey Brent. Kevin L. Wallace. Keith K Burkhart. Scott D. Phillips.J. Ward Donovan. Mosby. This specialty reference is dedicated to surveying how the physician should approach assessment and treatment of the patient who presents with symptoms of poisoning. A one-of-its-kind publication, this volume is the first text that we have seen to focus specifically on critical-care toxicology. Given the changing landscape of our world, with so many different chemical compounds being used in myriad ways, the potential for accidental poisoning is greater than it has ever been. Here, Brent and his co-writers have written a thorough exploration of the subject (with the analysis evolving from the point of hospital admission through core-treatment and stabilization/management, up to discharge). As noted, coverage is comprehensive and captures the whole of the topic, including chapters on toxic syndromes, poisoning by medication, drug abuse, poisoning by chemical agents, biological toxins, agents of chemical and biological terrorism (increasingly important given the war-torn fabric of this world), and antidotes used to neutralize toxicity. In addition, discussion includes perspective from various medical toxicologists within their individual areas of expertise. Analysis is also included on individual considerations as related to pediatric, pregnant, and geriatric patients (another reminder that medical professionals must evaluate patients on an individual basis and not based on ‘model’or formulaic treatments).

Recommended to Emergency Room physicians as an in-office reference (offering immediate access to a printed Poison Control Center). Further recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text for its obvious long-term value to the student community.

THE REQUISITES IN ANESTHESIOLOGY. Editor: Roberta L. Hines. Mosby. One of the most ignored aspects of surgery by the patient community is the process of administering anesthesia — the surgeons tend to get all the glory and headlines, but the anesthesiologist is just as vital to the procedure: without his expert administration of the drugs that keep the patient sedated, without his ability to know the patient and anticipate problems, surgeries would be a gamble and constant crap-shoot, with many ending in disaster. In terms of specialty texts that deal with anesthesia topics, Elsevier/Mosby’s The Requisites series is a benchmark, offering vital analysis on how the anesthesiologist should approach his craft.

In the Series

CARDIAC AND VASCULAR ANESTHESIA. Jacqueline M. Leung. Mosby. Leung (University of California, San Francisco) has drafted this text specifically for the anesthesiologist working with patients who have cardiac or vascular disease, and it specifically guides the anesthesiologist on ways to manage care for a cardiac-compromised individual. Topics covered include anesthesia for patients with aortic disease; anesthesia for the patient with valvular heart disease; and anesthesia for the patient with congenital heart disease. Leung is a master at the organization of medical data, and she approaches her subject in truly comprehensive terms, designing her chapters for quick and easy reference. The underlying idea here is for the surgeon and anesthesiologist to come together, striving to increase patient safety/survival while reducing post-operative complications.

REGIONAL ANESTHESIA. James P. Rathmell. Joseph M. Neal. Christopher M. Viscomi. Mosby. Like Leung’s text, this selection offers insightful investigation into specialized anesthesiology, with an examination of the different techniques the anesthesiologist can use for different regions of the body. After an overview of neurophysiology and nueroanatomy, we move into analysis of the effects of anesthesia on different parts of the body (including the head/neck block; spine; and upper extremities).

In addition to their value to the practicing anesthesiologist, these texts are marked by clear and logical organization and have strong classroom value; thus, they should strongly be considered as instructional resources.

Previously Featured Reviews

SAUNDERS MANUAL OF CRITICAL CARE. PDA SOFTWARE. James A. Kruse. Mitchell P. Fink. Richard W. Carlson. W.B. Saunders. This converts the Saunders Manual Of Critical Care to software, thus allowing physicians and nurses in the ICU to consult vital information in the course of treating critically ill patients. The Saunders Manual is renown as a comprehensive catalog of the most common conditions found in patients who present to the Intensive Care Unit. The software version of the manual omits nothing from the printed pages, and even adds some features. Readers will find over 200 chapters of analysis, formatted by organ system, a quick and easy one-stop electronic reference that saves doctors critical time in addressing questions. Topics covered include surgery, trauma, and post-op care, to name but a few. A wonderfully rich pharmacology chapter documents many of the drugs used in ICU wings, with full analysis on side effects, dosing and key action. The software also comes with a built-in calculator that is able to perform 39 different computations — yet another unique feature to this product that has been designed to save doctors research time, in turn, giving them a better opportunity to save lives.

Recommended to hospitals big and small for use as an ICU supplement. Priced at only $85, this is truly a bargain and will likely pay for itself many times each day.

THE SABISTON TEXTBOOK OF SURGERY: THE BIOLOGICAL BASIS OF MODERN SURGICAL PRACTICE. Courtney M. Townsend. R. Daniel Beauchamp. B. Mark Evers. Kenneth L. Mattox. W.B. Saunders. 17th edition of a text first published in 1936. Known throughout the medical world as the definitive source on surgery, Sabiston covers the principles of surgical technique in a well-written and clear style, guiding surgeons with panache and expertise. The new edition has many new and interesting additions, including analysis of the latest techniques used in the operating room and a CD-ROM comprised of over 2,000 illustrations (and supplements) designed to provide continuing education to the experienced surgeon. There is A LOT of new information here: material on robotics; comment on surgery of the elderly, obese, pregnant and immunosuppressed; and remarks on the use of ultrasound in the operating room give new relevance to this grandfatherly textbook. Medical instructors will note that the data on the CD ROM is easily downloadable to PowerPoint, allowing the information to be used as a classroom tool.

Recommended to surgeons in all sub-specialty areas. Further recommended for use as a classroom text for courses that review the role of surgery in medical care. Would be a welcome addition to any Health Science library as a general reference text.

Of Related Interest

Sabiston Textbook of Surgery — 17th edition Pocket Companion. Courtney M. Townsend. R. Daniel Beauchamp. Mark Evers. Kenneth Mattox. Elsevier/Saunders. This pocket companion to the Textbook of Surgery (see above) condenses the most vital information from the ‘mother’ volume, building a truly “portable reference” for use by the surgeon in the operating room. This volume is meant for “on-the-fly” reading, employing a bullet-format design which brings pertinent data directly to the hands of the surgeon so that he can quickly access it and then apply it to the patient. Even though this volume condenses the material from the Textbook of Surgery, the pocket edition corresponds directly to the original text, making it easy for the physician to explore topics in deeper detail should the need arise.

FIRST EXPOSURE: EMERGENCY MEDICINE CLERKSHIP. Lance H. Hoffman. Richard A. Walker. Michael C. Wadman. Christopher C. Caudill II. Kristine L. Bott. McGraw-Hill.

Just released, this handy manual has been written for advanced medical students and junior residents – a tool to prepare these fledgling doctors to competently address a rotation through the Emergency Department. Co-written by five esteemed Emergency physicians, First Exposure is meant to be a companion for the student/young doctor during their month-long tour of the ER. Rather than focus on scientific exploration into disease and acute care, this book focuses on clinical concepts – the idea here is to teach medical students how to evaluate symptoms and gauge how sick the person on the table is; only after this is done can they then begin to address treatment options. Obviously, because of the fast pace of emergency-room medicine, doctors must be able to quickly evaluate patients through careful examination of body and symptom pattern and then make decisions on a proper course of therapy:

“Emergency medicine differs from many other specialties in the degree of emphasis placed on patient disposition. The majority of the evaluation centers around determining whether the patient should be admitted to the hospital or discharged safely with outpatient follow-up. Often, the goal for the emergency room physician is not to arrive at a specific diagnosis but instead to determine the likelihood of serious illness…At the very least, the practitioner should have a good sense for whether or not the patient will need to be admitted after the initial history and physical examination, prior to performing any further studies.”

(Page 5)

First Exposure is a well-organized and reader friendly – a definitive textbook on emergency room medicine. Divided into four chapters (Introductory Information, Procedures, Chief Complaints and Selected Topics), it takes the student step-by-step through a stint in the ER: covering everything from the concept of emergency medicine to outlines of basic diagnostic strategies, it’s all about helping young doctors to identify dangerous symptoms and move toward proper and expedited treatment. Each chapter here is well diagrammed and the information is presented in clear and cogent form — the student will be able to logically follow these instructions and then apply them to the treating room. In the end, First Exposure is not so much a study guide to be read in a library as it is a pocket companion meant to be carried and referred to daily as the ER doctor moves from one patient to the next. Priced at less then $35, this is an absolute prerequisite for any medical student (not only those contemplating careers as emergency specialists), for it covers emergency diagnosis from a clinical perspective as well as any text we’ve seen this year. Also recommended to Health Science Libraries as a general reference text.

STEP-BY-STEP WOUND HEALING. Sylvie Meaume. Luc Teot. McGraw-Hill.

This slim manual released by McGraw-Hill provides a sharp reference pertaining to the care of wounds. As the title implies, Meaume’s (and Teot’s) text offers an illustrated view of wound care, providing detailed analysis on managing wounds in order to prevent serious infection and promote quick healing. Included in the discussion are the most common kinds of wounds encountered by the healthcare professional (burns, pressure sores, ulcers, diabetic wounds, surgical incisions, amputations), in addition to ways to debride wounds and dress them (wet versus dry dressings), among other information (on wound shape and evaluation). This text, with its specific and clear focus, wastes no time in jumping to the core of its subject matter. Expertly formatted with full color graphics, the material here is meant for use in the hospital by both physician and nurse as they treat patients. Moreover, Step-By-Step is chock full of information that is not readily available in more general texts on wound care. For example, the images and data on debridement via the introduction of maggots (Biological Debridement) provides cogent discussion of cutting -edge and revolutionary treatment, further illuminating the many avenues medicine has taken in its attempt to alleviate suffering and preserve life. Meaume and Teot have simply covered most every question that is likely to rise in the course of wound care, and their reliance on images juxtaposed with abbreviated analysis allows the physician/reader to use this material in designing an effective treatment plan.

Recommended to all Emergency Room physicians and trauma nurses as an on-the-job reference. Would also prove useful to military hospitals that treat a variety of wounds caused by projectiles and explosives. Also recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text with lasting value.

THE PRETEST SERIES. McGraw-Hill. The pretest series by M.H. marks the consummate tool facilitating preparation for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). This series is written to provide the doctor with counsel on how to approach the examination, including guidance on what types of questions to expect and analysis on why an answer is correct or incorrect. Such detail is enormously important — since the underlying motivation here is not only to pass an exam, but to prove competency toward the practice of medicine (and the treatment of patients). Thus, preparation for the USMLE must delve deeper than mere “what should I expect to see?” knowledge. Instead,this processshouldhelp the young doctor begin to utilize everything he’s learned in order to help patients. Highlights here are many, including practice exams/questions and review of all the basic sciences. Each text is student tested and reviewed, which demonstrates that the material is presented in a way which is conducive to how medical students absorb and retain material. Many topics are covered in the series, including Pathophysiology, Clinical Vignettes for USMLE Step 1, Biochemistry and Genetics, and Pathology. Priced at $25, these volumes are quite affordable and seem to be a necessity for any doctor preparing for formal licensing.

THE ESSENTIAL REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE. Bruce R. Carr. Richard Blackwell. Ricardo Azziz. McGraw-Hill. This text is formatted specifically for use by the Obstetrician/Gynecologist, examining in comprehensive terms the practice of reproductive medicine. Essential has been written for use by the practicing clinician in the course of patient treatment and consultation. To this end, it covers myriad topics, including: infertility issues, disorders of the endocrine system that impact reproduction, hormonal and non-hormonal contraception, the pros and cons of hormonal replacement, discussion of recurrent pregnancy loss, and menopause.

THE DIABETES MELLITUS MANUAL. Silvio E. Inzucchi. McGraw-Hill. Manual written for the primary care physician or general practitioner, providing basic analysis of Diabetes, including diagnostic and treatment guidelines for both type one and type two Diabetes. In addition to these guidelines, information is provided on various drug therapies. Moreover, Inzucchi is careful to note that proper control of this disease cannot be accomplished completely with drug therapy, but instead is achieved in conjunction with drug therapy and in depth patient education which stresses proper nutrition and exercise. Finally, the reader will be engaged in discussion on complications from Diabetes involving other organ systems, including cardiac, renal and ophthalmologic problems.

COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY: A COMPETENCY BASED APPROACH. Betty Davis Jones. Delmar-Thomson. This souped-up medical dictionary provides an in depth introduction to medical terminology, designed to familiarize the novice with the systems of the human body, thus preparing him to move into more advanced medical science courses.

However, readers shouldn’t be misled, for this is much more than just a glossary of medical terminology. Instead, Jones has done a remarkable job in creating a dictionary that also can be utilized as an tool in the classroom, as one special segment of the text shows specifically how combining word elements creates medical terms. Accordingly, each time a new word is introduced to the reader its components are broken down to show its root.

The design of the text – by body system and specialty area of practice – is beneficial to the young student in that it allows them to learn one system at a time without skipping around from organ to organ. This stylistic trait promotes a more complete understanding of the systems of the human body, encouraging students to note how each of these systems fit together and work in complete balance. Moreover, Jones has developed a special “Do This/Say It” chapter which forces the student to apply what’s been learned before moving to new material. This second edition also includes a section on gerontology meant to familiarize the young student with the unique problems that confront the elderly patient.

Recommended as a teaching text in all nursing courses and in any under-graduate course that begins the foundation for medical school. Further recommended to all college-level and public sector libraries as a general reference text.

MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE. Lee W. Riley. American Society For Microbiology. A unique and revolutionary textbook, Molecular Epidemiology presents information on ways molecular biology can be used to confront the incidence and the spread of infectious disease.

The way that bacteria multiply and the ease with which infectious disease spreads has always been difficult for the health care researcher to understand. And with the new century comes a new set of challenges: SARS, HIV, the global threat of biological weapons as war tools. As the Anthrax scare in the autumn of 2001 proves, the country as a whole is susceptible to mass infection (and the death and destruction that such infection brings). Accordingly, this text has been written to show scientists how they might better approach unlocking the mysteries of how infectious organisms take over the community of a cell and then spread.

In short, Molecular Epidemiology sews together the basic concepts of epidemiology with the vocabulary of molecular biology, in turn melding these two specialties so that clinicians can more efficiently investigate disease. From this unique perspective, scientists with varied and distinct backgrounds have now been presented with a reference point from which they can begin their work. Stylistically, the book is written in a standard scientific format. First, various techniques of molecular biology are explored in detail. Once this foundation has been laid, the idea of disease is addressed, with an eye toward identifying and distinguishing the different ways that infectious organisms spread.

Recommended as a teaching text in the both the fields of molecular biology and epidemiology for its logic and clear organization. Would further be of value to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Would not be appropriate for the internist or primary care physician with an office practice, as this text looks at the spread of disease from a researcher’s point of view and is meant for the study of the subject matter from that perspective.

Elsevier Health Science

SAUNDERS MANUAL OF CRITICAL CARE. PDA SOFTWARE. James A. Kruse. Mitchell P. Fink. Richard W. Carlson. W.B. Saunders. This converts the Saunders Manual Of Critical Care to software, thus allowing physicians and nurses in the ICU to consult vital information in the course of treating critically ill patients. The Saunders Manual is renown as a comprehensive catalog of the most common conditions found in patients who present to the Intensive Care Unit. The software version of the manual omits nothing from the printed pages, and even adds some features. Readers will find over 200 chapters of analysis, formatted by organ system, a quick and easy one-stop electronic reference that saves doctors critical time in addressing questions. Topics covered include surgery, trauma, and post-op care, to name but a few. A wonderfully rich pharmacology chapter documents many of the drugs used in ICU wings, with full analysis on side effects, dosing and key action. The software also comes with a built-in calculator that is able to perform 39 different computations — yet another unique feature to this product that has been designed to save doctors research time, in turn, giving them a better opportunity to save lives.

Recommended to hospitals big and small for use as an ICU supplement. Priced at only $85, this is truly a bargain and will likely pay for itself many times each day.

THE SABISTON TEXTBOOK OF SURGERY: THE BIOLOGICAL BASIS OF MODERN SURGICAL PRACTICE. Courtney M. Townsend. R. Daniel Beauchamp. B. Mark Evers. Kenneth L. Mattox. W.B. Saunders. 17th edition of a text first published in 1936. Known throughout the medical world as the definitive source on surgery, Sabiston covers the principles of surgical technique in a well-written and clear style, guiding surgeons with panache and expertise. The new edition has many new and interesting additions, including analysis of the latest techniques used in the operating room and a CD-ROM comprised of over 2,000 illustrations (and supplements) designed to provide continuing education to the experienced surgeon. There is A LOT of new information here: material on robotics; comment on surgery of the elderly, obese, pregnant and immunosuppressed; and remarks on the use of ultrasound in the operating room give new relevance to this grandfatherly textbook. Medical instructors will note that the data on the CD ROM is easily downloadable to PowerPoint, allowing the information to be used as a classroom tool.

Recommended to surgeons in all sub-specialty areas. Further recommended for use as a classroom text for courses that review the role of surgery in medical care. Would be a welcome addition to any Health Science library as a general reference text.

ATLAS OF AESTHETIC FACE AND NECK SURGERY. Gregory LaTrenta. M.D. W.B. Saunders. This atlas provides a detailed over view of how surgeons should approach procedures of the head and neck. During a time when elective plastic surgeries are becoming more and more common place, this manual illuminates how the physician can best approach these sometimes difficult cases. Moreover, Face and Neck strives to look beyond the instant of knife cutting skin; instead, it expertly guides the surgeon on ways to approach and manage the complicated proposal of invading the delicate tissues that comprise the human face, neck and eye.

What’s best about this atlas is the way LaTrenta presents his material: well-organized chapters come complete with concluding summaries that offer the physician clearly delineated reference points. Information is further augmented by full-color illustrations that demonstrate how procedures are performed (rather than merely “lecturing” on paper). This aspect of Face and Neck is quite important because it fosters an immediate interaction between writer and reader – an in depth “hands on” demonstration of the various approaches to facial and head surgeries.

This book is written (and recommended) for the practicing plastic surgeon and for other experts dealing with treatment of the head and face. It would also prove useful to Health Science libraries as a general reference text. However, because the book is so specific, it is not recommended as a general classroom text: these outlines presuppose the reader has some mastery of a subject matter which goes beyond the skill level of the medical student.

BREAST IMAGING: THE REQUISITES. Second Edition. Debra Ikeda. Mosby/Elsevier. New text by Debra Ikeda (Associate Professor Of Radiology at Stanford University) clearly outlines the basics on how to conduct and interpret diagnostic breast images. Ikeda’s study is truly in depth, as it covers the whole topic through illustration and careful discussion. The text includes coverage of the technology used to record images of the breast and investigation of the latest equipment used by radiologists, plus comprehensive dissertation on how to distinguish between various breast abnormalities (cancer masses, calcifications, etc.). Medical professionals will also be presented information on how to approach cancer (from diagnosis of tumor through the treatment phase). Although the natural audience for this text is Radiology Residents (and practicing Radiologists), it extends well beyond these boundaries: internists, all women’s health practitioners and primary care physicians will be well-served by Ikeda’s research, since the threat of breast cancer is one of the primary reasons many women under age fifty seek health counsel. As Breast Imaging reminds us — the key to treatment of breast tumors is in early detection and in the ability of the radiologist to recognize potential problems. To this end, Ikeda offers vital direction.

Recommended as a teaching text in radiology programs; in addition highly recommended to Health Science libraries as a reference.

CARDIAC PACEMAKERS STEP BY STEP. S. Serge Barold. Roland X. Stroobandt. Alfons F. Sinnaeve. Blackwell Futura. The hard-core traditional medical community may resent this text — because of its simplified design (and these oh-so-creative graphics!) that strive to teach the basics of cardiac pacing to those new to the field. However, the charm of this text is in its readability and in the smooth and quick-moving approach it employs. Why does medicine need be dull and stale and stagnate? The authors here say it doesn’t – and they’ve come up with a fresh perspective. Wonderful full-color diagrams and illustrations take the reader ‘step-by-step’ through the foundations of heart pacing, teaching the subject from its basic beginnings – the idea here is to take a doctor with foundational knowledge of electrocardiography and expand on that knowledge so the non-cardiologist can competently care for patients with pacemakers. Well-designed, well-written, with astute use of diagrams to illustrate all written analysis, Cardiac covers many topics (including the function of DDD pacemakers and the diagnosis of tachycardias).

Recommended as a teaching text for advanced medical students who are proceeding to a clerkship in cardiology. Also recommended to Health Science libraries as general reference text.

The Textbook Debate

During the past several months, many an article has hit the mainstream press rebuking textbook companies for charging too much and for issuing needless editions. Some students and professors believe that there is no point to such new editions, except as a means to generate additional revenue for publishers. However, after careful examination of myriad titles in many scientific (and general academic) disciplines, I must heartily disagree.

The reasons for my opposition to the media status quo is based upon the fact that research in the medical sciences is constantly advancing therapies and the way that illness and concepts of treatment are approached (this is also true in the fields of law, paralegal study, psychology and civic engineering). Keep in mind that once research studies are completed, authors and publishers must immediately revise current texts in order to incorporate new information and bring students and teachers up-to-date.

Yes, these books are massively expensive. Yes, they are economically burdensome for many students to purchase. But remember that they are also expensive to produce: many of the medical texts I saw were over 500 pages in length and included hundreds of color plates. And all this requires significant dollars to create. Add to this the extra costs of editing and binding these tomes and you will begin to understand the factors at work which drive prices upward. Unfortunately, it is an expensive proposition going to college today. And that expense only increases when a student decides to embark on a career in medicine. However, the whole point behind medical school is to learn about the body’s systems thoroughly and to investigate the most current research data available. Thus the need for these constantly evolving editions.

But is there a more efficient way of providing this data to the student? Perhaps. Perhaps publishers might begin to examine the production of small supplemental editions that might augment existing texts as a way to mitigate some of the cost to the student. Still, consumers of this material must also accept the fact that the internet has changed the dynamics of the way books are bought and sold. Accordingly, publishers in all genres are finding it more difficult to cut a profit during the last decade — hamstrung by the economics of trying to cover costs without completely pricing their audience out of the market. Basically, publishers can only drop prices so far before the margin falls into the negative.

Obviously, these are tough times. Both individuals and corporations alike are struggling as the country teeters on the edge of a full scale depression. Yet, publishers can only be blamed for the price of a college education so much. The bottom line is that it costs money to build these books, and this is compounded by the fact that scientific data changes by the day. With each of these factors intersecting and interlinking at the same time, it is not likely that the situation will get better soon.

by John Aiello

DORLAND’S ILLUSTRATED MEDICAL DICTIONARY. 30th Edition. Saunders Publishing. For over a century, Dorland’s has been the medical profession’s equivalent to Black’s Law Dictionary. This edition contains more than 123,000 entries that cover the full spectrum of medical terminology, offering hundreds of illustrations and photographs that illuminate and examine many of the definitions. The material on alternative medical therapies makes this edition of Dorland’s an especially valuable tool for the general household and for those who continue to explore herbal medicines and holistic measures. In this age of HMOS and fast moving technology, Dorland’s offers consumers a reference source which can help them to understand the things their doctors are saying, giving patients the opportunity to gain knowledge and take a more active role in their health care. Obviously, this is a “must-have” for all college libraries. It would be a useful volume for public libraries as well, giving those individuals who cannot afford to purchase their own copy vital access.

THE ART OF MEDICINE: WHAT EVERY DOCTOR AND PATIENT SHOULD KNOW. Kevin J. Soden. Mosby Publishers. Kevin Soden is a former emergency room physician who is now a widely acclaimed medical journalist and a regular on the “Today Show.” His most recent book, The Art of Medicine, is very unique in that it attempts to explore the practice of medicine from both the doctor’s and the patient’s view point. Aside from the crisp writing and analysis, what’s most appealing about Soden is his courage to confront issues that most doctors run from: issues like the fact that many MDS don’t listen well and thus alienate the very individuals they’re being paid to heal (“In the doctor-patient relationship, either party has the ability to discharge the other. Physicians do not have to deal with disruptive, non-compliant patients and patients do not have to deal with physicians who will not listen to their concerns” — page 62). As a writer, Soden sometimes uses short vignettes to recreate the situations that doctors routinely face, offering both the medical professional and the patient an opportunity to “live in the other’s shoes.” Take a moment and hunt down a copy of The Art of Medicine: it’s a rare chance to learn what patient and doctor can do to better interact with the other.

These recommendations speak to books with strong reference or professional content and each have high value to both collegiate and public libraries alike.

HOW TO CHOOSE A MEDICAL SPECIALTY, 4th Edition. Anita D. Taylor. Saunders. Saunders, along with the rest of the Elsevier umbrella, are leaders in health and science publishing, providing useful tools for medical school professors and their students. The new edition of How To Choose a Medical Specialty continues this mission, offering insightful commentary for both medical and pre-medical students on how to choose a specialty area of study. In her comprehensive manual, Taylor shows the prospective doctor how to pair his abilities and interests with an area of specialty. As Taylor points out in her analysis, doctors should not disregard their personal interests and motivations when examining what medical specialty they will pursue. Instead, they should carefully explore themselves in relation to the practice of medicine to see just where they best fit. To this end, the book includes self-assessment questionnaires that will help students identify goals, abilities and temperament. “Summary Physician Profiles” are also noted, providing information for every specialty and sub-specialty approved by the American Board of Medical Specialties; this feature allows students to compare their questionnaire responses to those of practicing clinicians. This fourth edition of How To also presents the responses of fourth year medical students to a questionnaire on decision making, thus directing younger students through the perspectives of individuals who are still in pursuit of their degrees. All primary medical specialties are addressed, along with a chapter on emerging areas of study like Addiction Medicine and geriatric care. Includes much practical information, such as website addresses for different medical associations and economic projections in the field. With this handbook, Anita Taylor has artfully stripped away the hype from medical school and reduced the discipline to its essence: Do you belong in medical school? Do you have what it takes to serve your patients in a competent and useful way? Have you thought about who you are in relation to the rigorous practice of medicine? Are you in this for the money or because you care about people? Taylor’s book is vital to all young doctors and it would serve all medical schools well if How To Choose A Medical Specialty became required reading: This well-written text could help to keep many soon-to-be doctors from practicing in sub-specialties for which they are not well-suited. Recommended as University library reference; further useful to health and science journalists as a resource guide.

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED. MIGRAINE AND OTHER HEADACHES. Andrew J. Dowson. Churchill Livingstone. Your Questions Answered is a fledgling series of handbooks published by Churchill Livingstone, offering clear, concise and thorough commentary on the diagnosis, treatment and management of a variety of illnesses. Your Questions Answered is a true breakthrough in health science publishing, for these are books that come with dual purpose — meant for both the medical professional and the general reader alike. These books, written in an effortless question and answer format, educate by answering typical patient questions, reducing answers to the basics — here, the point is to educate and not to lecture (similar to the Mayo Clinic’s Family Healthbook). Migraine, written by Andrew Dowson (director of the Headache Service at King’s Hospital in London), investigates the phenomenon of headaches and how they can be diagnosed and treated. Includes an extremely useful section that lists the contact information of various associations for the benefit of the headache suffer and his physician. Would be a useful addition to all high school, university and public libraries illuminating a condition that afflicts both the young and old throughout the world. Also recommended for pharmacies that sell reference manuals on health and fitness subjects. Others in the series include studies on hypertension, diabetes and allergy (to be examined in future editions of the Electric Review).

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED. PARKINSON’S DISEASE. Thomas Foltynie, Simon Lewis, Roger A. Barker. Churchill Livingstone. Your Questions Answered is a fledgling series of handbooks published by Churchill Livingstone, offering clear, concise and thorough commentary on the diagnosis, treatment and management of a variety of illnesses. Your Questions Answered is a true breakthrough in health science publishing, for these are books that come with a dual purpose — meant for both the medical professional and the general reader alike. These books, written in an effortless question and answer format, educate by answering typical patient questions, reducing answers to the basics — here, the point is to educate and not to lecture (similar in purpose and scope to the Mayo Clinic’s Family Healthbook). Parkinson’s, written by Foltynie, Lewis and Barker (each esteemed clinicians from the UK), explores this debilitating disease that causes the body to shake and stiffen as the individual slowly wastes and crumbles, withering away. This book offers a comprehensive analysis of this phenomenon and investigates various treatment options. Also examines diagnostic methods which would be of great benefit to the general practitioner who might be incurring difficulty with a patient in the initial stages of illness. Parkinson’s Disease is an extremely important installment in the Your Questions Answered series, for this affliction is one the most serious health problems that presently confront our nation. Along with cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s is a terribly expensive malady to treat, with patients often ending up in resthomes as the disease worsens. Is America prepared to deal with the impact this will have on the Medicare system and on long-term care insurance companies? If your family member does not have long-term care insurance and cannot afford a rest home, will you be able to provide suitable care? Before these questions can be considered, one must first understand the perimeters of the problem. And this book gives us that starting point — informative and insightful, written in a clear, concise and logical style. Includes an extremely useful section on support and information services available to those with Parkinson’s. Subtle differences between UK and American spelling and a few awkward passages (again due to language clash) do not impact the over-all value of this book.

Would be a useful addition to all high school, university and public libraries illuminating a condition that will begin to affect more and more people as baby-boomers reach retirement age. Also highly recommended for pharmacies that sell reference manuals on health and fitness subjects. Others in the series include studies on hypertension, diabetes and allergy (to be examined in future editions of The Electric Review).

INTERNAL MEDICINE CLERKSHIP GUIDE. Doug Paauw; Mary Migeon; and Lisanne Burkholder. Mosby Publishers. Released in December 2002, this pocket manual is aimed at providing direction to advanced medial students rotating through clerkship positions in internal medicine. More than anything, Clerkship is a practical guide meant to help medical students become aware of themselves as they learn to assess how their skill levels compare to the demands of practicing medicine. Clerkship is comprised of three primary sections, with the most valuable passages of text outlining the qualifications, skills and procedural knowledge the young doctor must possess in order to complete a rotation assignment. Sections two and three offer discussion/presentations meant to test student understanding of symptom identification and diagnosis. However, the real value of Clerkship is in the material that sets out typical problems young doctors fall prey to, further taking steps to demonstrate solutions to these problems – a comprehensive attempt at mitigating some of the anxiety that medical students endure. Also included are usual questions that students are asked on rounds, as well as “practice cases” which allow students to directly apply their knowledge, preparing them for future clinical examination.

The Internal Medicine Clerkship Guide is an important contribution to the study of medicine. With this handbook, Paauw (University of Washington), Migeon (University of Washington) and Burkholder (University of California, San Francisco) have created a practical teaching tool meant to help medical students successfully complete their courses of study. Keep in mind that doctors a century ago didn’t have guides like this to refer to; instead, their educational careers were products of trial and error. Fortunately, times have changed dramatically. Accordingly, today’s medical students should take full advantage of all the resources and tools available to them, for manuals such as this can certainly lessen the stress of studying medicine.

Recommended for all medical students; also an imperative health reference text for all medical school libraries and for university libraries that support biology/nursing/health science departments.

PocketRadiologist: BREAST. Robyn L. Birdwell, Elizabeth Morris, Shih-chang Wang and Brett T. Parkinson. W.B. Saunders. The Pocketradiologist series is formatted for doctors and advanced medical students. These manuals provide data and direction on the 100 most important diagnoses in a given radiologic discipline. This installment in the series illuminates diseases of the breast and offers insight on how to recognize and identify the diseases that afflict this region of the anatomy. The diagnostic data provided is in-depth, as the physician is presented with example images/illustrations and key facts that allow him to immediately confirm the existence or absence of tissue abnormalities. Breast is further enhanced by thorough analysis on how a doctor can readily address pathologic issues – a huge factor in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer cases. Moreover, Birdwell, Morris, Chang and Parkinson write in a clear and compact style, building summaries that act as thumbnail ‘lectures’ on how doctors should address the question of breast disease. Detailed and well-edited, with expert use of graphics. Other editions in the series include guides on the brain, spine, head/neck and abdomen.

Highly recommended for all medical school libraries as a general reference text. Also would be a sound choice for a classroom text in med school radiology departments. Further recommended for the general practitioner and the radiologist as a quick office reference. In addition, medical students would benefit from referring to this series to familiarize themselves with the art of clinical diagnosis.