Alexander R. Vaccaro and Todd J. Albert, editors. New
York: Thieme; 2001. 552 pages. $149.00.
This book has an unusual format that may be very useful and educational
for many readers. Numerous well-known spine surgeons and
their younger colleagues present a series of cases (including the medical
history and the clinical and radiographic findings), which include "pearls" and "pitfalls," a review
of treatment options, surgical pointers and illustrations, discussion,
and suggested readings. The cases range from the routine and commonplace (herniated
disc, burst fracture) to the rare and exotic (spinal cord herniation,
congenital scoliosis).
In general, this is a well-thought-out and appropriately
detailed reference book. Since many of us learn best by reading
about specific cases, the text may be particularly well suited for
residents and fellows as well as for those who are studying for
an examination. It also will likely be useful for practicing surgeons
who want to review a specific topic.
There are a few areas where the text suffers from having the "expert" in
the field present his or her view alone with few caveats pertaining
to contraindications or to others’ results, which are often
not as good but which deserve our attention. These one-sided views
are not unique to this text, of course, but given the editors’ attempt
to provide a more balanced view by presenting both the advantages
and disadvantages of various treatments, they are notable. In addition,
some challenging cases are presented with minimal follow-up, leading
one to wonder if there were complications or other reasons that
the follow-up was so short. It is hoped that the casual reader will
not interpret these short-term results as implying that the suggested
procedure will work in all cases.
Overall, the book is well written and well researched, and generally
it provides a balanced approach to a variety of problems. The innovative format
will be a refreshing change for readers interested in spinal disorders.