Thieme, New York, 2000, $159.
Residents have little time and are faced with many competing sources of information, which forces us to be judicious with what we read and/or buy. With that in mind, MRI of the Musculoskeletal System is a compact book that is well organized with an evidence-based approach.
The opening chapter, "Technology of MRI," discusses various sequences and techniques. The coverage of gradient sequences and acronyms used by various manufacturers is very helpful.
The remaining chapters cover all the major joints including musculature, bone marrow, tumors, and osteoporosis. Although sequence selection is often based on personal preference, protocols are provided in the appendix; many up-to-date gradient sequences are included in the chapters themselves.
The chapters start with exam technique, general anatomy, and specific MRI anatomy. This is followed by a discussion of pathology including clinical information and its relevance. The evidence-based approach gave significance to the findings. The pitfalls portion that is an obligatory part of any MRI text is very helpful.
The language of the book is usually straightforward, although there are occasional awkward grammatical passages, typographical errors, and inconsistencies in information. For example, in the chapter on the knee, the positions of the meniscofemoral ligaments (Wrisberg and Humphrey) are incorrectly stated in one instance, despite having been described correctly earlier in the same subsection. This may be related to the translation from German to English. But these minor distractions did not significantly detract from the overall read.
The book’s format lends itself to easy reading. The content is thorough enough to make it an excellent reference without being encyclopedic. The approximately 898 illustrations, 48 tables, and many diagrams were very helpful. A significant part, if not all, of the book could be covered by the average 3rd or 4th year resident on a rotation.
By Dr. Raj HashmiAuntMinnie.com contributing writer
May 3, 2002
Dr. Hashmi is a 3rd year radiology resident at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis. He will graduate in 2003.
If you are interested in reviewing a book, let us know at [email protected].
The opinions expressed in this review are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of AuntMinnie.com.
Copyright © 2002 AuntMinnie.com
