Nuclear Medicine and PET: Technology and Techniques by Paul E. Christian, Donald R. Bernier, and James K. Langan, eds., 5th edition
Elsevier Science, St. Louis, 2003, $112
The latest edition of this textbook -- widely used by nuclear medicine students, technologists and practitioners -- includes more coverage of PET imaging, with two new chapters devoted to the modality. In addition to PET fundamentals, there are comprehensive discussions on molecular imaging with PET, and PET imaging in oncology, reflecting its importance and growth in the current patient treatment program.
The book is structured into two sections: basic nuclear medicine sciences and clinical information related to organ systems. The latter chapters are very thorough, covering anatomy and physiology, and the clinical aspects of molecular imaging procedures.
Where appropriate, a discussion of related PET studies is included. This approach gives the reader a physiologic view of the system being studied, which is something that defines this field.
Each chapter has an outline and learning objectives at the beginning, and a list of suggested readings at the end. The chapters are well organized and cover the required material thoroughly, with plenty of figures and images to augment the text.
I found the computer science chapter to be full of historical information, but a little dated. Still, this is an area that moves so rapidly, that it is almost impossible to keep up with the state of the art. For working nuclear medicine technologists, this information will provide an adequate background; news about current technology can be gleaned from their department "computer geek" and equipment vendors.
Representing the current standard of practice in nuclear medicine, Nuclear Medicine and PET: Technology and Techniques is well-designed and meaningful. New students, as well as seasoned veterans, will benefit from this contribution by recognized leaders in the field.
By Ray DeiningerAuntMinnie.com contributing writer
January 24, 2005
Ray Deininger, CNMT, is a 25-year nuclear medicine veteran. He has practiced clinical nuclear medicine at several hospitals, worked for several equipment vendors, and owned his own nuclear medicine software company. He presently works for a hospital and consults for a major equipment vendor in Tucson, AZ.
The opinions expressed in this review are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of AuntMinnie.com.
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