Vascular imaging for surgeons

Abstract

Vascular imaging for surgeons R.M. Greenhalgh. London, 1995, W.B. Saunders, 531 pages, $90. Vascular imaging for surgeons is the latest monograph published from the annual Charing Cross International Symposium on Vascular Surgery. As has traditionally been the case, the faculty participating in the symposium is drawn almost exclusively from the European continent. Each chapter within the text represents a contribution from one of the presenting authors, which is submitted in conjunction with their presentation at the symposium. In most cases, the chapters are written by various experts in vascular surgery and radiology who have demonstrated expertise and interest through previous publications relating to their presentation. The text is divided into seven broad sections, including an introductory section introducing new imaging techniques, one on thoracic vascular imaging, one on abdominal imaging, and additional sections on the peripheral vasculature, varicose veins, and other components of venous imaging. In general, the chapters are well written and contain much new and exciting information concerning vascular imaging. There is much overlap between the various chapters. For example, the details of magnetic resonance arterial imaging are outlined in several chapters. Nonetheless, this is not a weakness as it is unlikely that this book would be read cover to cover. It serves more as a reference text that will be most useful for reading about particular techniques and applications. The sections are well balanced with discussions about both cutting-edge research applications of new imaging techniques and more clinically relevant techniques for the surgeon in the operating room and vascular laboratory. While much of the information has appeared in the vascular literature, numerous chapters address novel applications of new technology such as on-line magnetic resonance angiography and the use of digital subtraction angiography for the measurement of arterial blood flow and compliance. In general, the diagrams, photographs, and x-ray reproductions are clear and of excellent quality. American surgeons and interventional radiologists will find it refreshing and interesting to read about the perspective of our European colleagues and their clinical and research applications involving vascular imaging. This monograph represents a specialized reference source that will be most useful to active vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists who are interested in new techniques and applications in vascular imaging.