Imaging of the Nervous System: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications: Volumes 1 and 2 by Richard Latchaw, John Kucharczyk, and Michael E. Moseley
Elsevier Science, St. Louis, 2005, $295
This new two-volume work by Latchaw and colleagues is the most current and complete neuroimaging reference text I have seen to date. The extensive list of contributors is impressive; their vast expertise in diagnostic and interventional neuroradiology, neurology, and neurosurgery has been combined to produce a unique, highly informative, and timely text.
Volume 1 begins with an excellent review of imaging principals and techniques. It is well written, easy to understand, and discusses basic physics as well as the most current CT and MR imaging applications.
The remainder of this volume is devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of cerebrovascular disease. Other sections deal with comprehensive imaging and treatment of acute stroke, intracranial aneurysms, vascular malformations, and venous occlusive disease. An in-depth discussion of CTA, MRA, CT and MR perfusion, and diffusion techniques will be useful to those implementing such exams into daily practice.
Volume 2 deals with nonvascular cerebral disease; pediatric and peripheral nervous system imaging; imaging and treatment of spinal disorders; and image-guided therapy for parenchyma disease. This last section covers therapeutic and diagnostic techniques utilized by the neuroradiologist and by our surgical counterparts, providing insight into aspects of therapy. This section enhances one’s overall understanding of our role as diagnostic, or minimally invasive, sub-specialists.
Spectroscopy is mentioned throughout both volumes. The technique is discussed in detail and many excellent clinical cases are provided. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), white matter tractography, functional MRI, and magnetoencephalography are discussed in both volumes, along with current applications and future directions.
Numerous images are included and correlate well with the text. Color plates are present in the front of each volume with high quality full color DTI and functional MR images, MR perfusion and brain PET images, as well as gross pathologic photos, and photomicrographs. A CD-ROM is included in the back of the first volume for those who prefer an electronic reference.
This is a very ambitious work. Imaging of the Nervous System is one of the few neuroradiology texts that successfully combine current concepts in diagnostic imaging and interpretation with therapeutic options and techniques.
By Dr. Brian J. FortmanAuntMinnie.com contributing writer
March 21, 2005
Dr. Fortman is a neuroimaging specialist at Carolina Radiology Associates in Myrtle Beach, SC.
The opinions expressed in this review are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of AuntMinnie.com.
Copyright © 2005 AuntMinnie.com
