Human Sectional Anatomy: Atlas of body sections, CT and MRI images, 3rd edn

Abstract

This book, first published in 1991 and now in its third edition, consists of 119 colour plates of axial, coronal and sagittal sections of the human body, which are matched with corresponding computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It is written by three authors who are all experts in their relevant fields. The preface gives an account of the history of sectional anatomy and the introduction stresses the importance of cross-sectional anatomy in relation to the understanding of modern imaging techniques, especially CT and MRI. A full and clear description of the techniques involved in the preparation of the cadaveric material is given followed by an explanation of the scientific basis of CT and MRI. The presentation is consistent throughout, namely double-page spreads of fully labelled cadaver sections on the left-hand page matched on the right-hand page with details on sectional level, orientation, labelled line drawings, MRI or CT scans and notes explaining important points. Larger structures in the anatomical sections are numbered directly, while smaller structures are indicated by leader lines. The key to the numbering is placed directly below the photographs, thus facilitating interpretation. In some cases, there is a lack of precise correspondence between the anatomical sections and the CT and MRI images but, as explained in the introduction, no two patients are quite the same shape and the distribution of fat not only varies from patient to patient but also between the sexes. In the third edition, many of the images have been replaced with new images taken on the most up-to-date equipment, including images taken using multidetector CT technology and 3-D volume-rendered CT images. Some of the anatomical terminology may seem unusual at first reading. It does, however, conform to Terminologia Anatomica (1988) – for example ‘peroneal’ is now replaced by ‘fibular’. Accordingly, peroneus longus is now fibularis longus and the common peroneal nerve is now the common fibular nerve. This is certainly the best text book of sectional anatomy about. It is beautifully produced and the photographs of cross sections of embalmed human material are the best I have ever seen. This book is an absolute must for radiologists and radiographers in training but it is also an essential reference book for anatomists and medical students. I would also strongly recommend it to those studying for the MRCS and the intercollegiate FRCS, as the ability to interpret images is an important part of the viva component of the examination. It will be consulted frequently by anyone who wishes to enhance his or her appreciation of cross-sectional anatomy. It is a veritable gem.