An atlas must be assessed in a different light than a standard medical text since it is used for a much different purpose. An atlas must be concise and very practical. An and Riley have achieved both of these objectives in this atlas describing operative procedures related to the spine.
The chapters were written by a very knowledgeable and well respected group of authors. The scope of this work is quite broad, ranging from application of a halo device to exposure of intradural lesions, from transoral atlantoaxial procedures to fixation of the sacrum and the pelvis, and from microsurgical procedures to thoracolumbar instrumentation.
Illustrations are the key component of a surgical atlas, and the more than 500 color and black-and-white illustrations, by Hilmer, are very well done. Color has been used judiciously to enhance important anatomical highlights and technical points.
The text is clearly written, the presentation is very straightforward, and many practical tips are given. The indications for the various techniques are dramatically highlighted. The book is logically organized and very user-friendly.
This atlas will be very useful for surgeons and residents who perform operative procedures on the spine. Fortunately, it has a durable, hard cover, as it will be used frequently.
Charles R. Clark, M.D.
Deputy Editor for Adult Reconstruction
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery
Needham, Massachusetts