Fundamentals of Body CT by W. Richard Webb, William E. Brant, and Nancy M. Major, 3rd ed.
Elsevier Science, St. Louis, 2006, $72.95
Now in its third printing, this book is a perennial favorite among residents because of its concise size, excellent writing, and clean diagnostic images. I would highly recommend it for the beginning radiologist.
The book is divided into three sections: the thorax is covered by Dr. Richard Webb; the abdomen and pelvis by Dr. William Brant; and the muskuloskeletal section by Dr. Nancy Major.
The chapters are organized mostly by anatomical organs. Each chapter discusses normal anatomy, technical considerations for performing a CT scan of that area, and the specific pathological diagnosis that commonly occur in that organ. There is also a suggested reading section for each chapter that references several journal articles for additional information.
This edition has been expanded in other ways as well. New topics include high-resolution CT of pulmonary embolism and aortic abnormalities, with a top 10 list of diseases and their common appearances on high-resolution CT.
There is also a new chapter on abdominal trauma and the use of CT for kidney stones. The musculoskeletal section has grown to include three chapters on trauma, non-trauma, and incidental findings.
The abdominal section will be of particular benefit for radiologists-in-training as it provides a specific pattern for CT evaluation that is systematic and easy to follow.
The book has excellent images on high-gloss paper. There are more lists and tables, making it easier to access and understand the material. Bullet points are used very effectively for faster reading and reference.
At less than $75 and over 400 pages, Fundamentals of Body CT is a steal in comparison to more pricey textbooks. This is the book to read before your body CT rotation.
By Dr. Benjamin HomAuntMinnie.com contributing writer
March 9, 2006
Dr. Hom is an intern at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, WA. He will begin a radiology residency at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville in 2006.
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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