David W. Altchek and James R. Andrews, editors. Philadelphia:
Lippincott Williams and Wilkins; 2001. 288 pages. $115.00.
This textbook is intended for use by professionals who are involved
in the care of upper-extremity problems, particularly elbow problems
in athletes. This audience includes athletic trainers, physical
therapists, residents, and fellows as well as general orthopaedists
and hand surgeons.
Seventy-seven authors contributed their knowledge and experience
to this compact volume of seventeen chapters. The senior authors
are among the most informed and experienced individuals
in the field, as evidenced by their excellent technical presentation
of even controversial topics.
The text progressively evolves in a systematic fashion, beginning
with a chapter on developmental and gross anatomy and ending with
an excellent and well-organized chapter on rehabilitation of the
athlete’s elbow. All aspects of the treatment of elbow
problems, including both rare and more common procedures, are thoroughly
explained, and their relevance is discussed in an easily understood
manner. The ample diagrams, photographs, and tables are informative
and complete. Any deficiency can be remedied easily by perusing
the comprehensive bibliography at the end of each chapter.
The chapters on biomechanics and physical examination clearly
describe how to perform an accurate evaluation of the elbow. The
chapter on imaging is particularly helpful because the diagnostic
tests are clearly explained by experienced radiologists. The final
chapter, by physical therapists Wilk and Levinson, begins with an
overview of elbow rehabilitation and proceeds with a discussion
of multiple strengthening and rehabilitation programs that can be
used in various sports as well as in conjunction with both conservative
and surgical programs. These programs are presented as easily understood protocols
that can be maintained and followed by the patient at home to achieve
optimum results with less risk.
This comprehensive book is an extremely convenient source for
quick, concise reference, especially in emergency situations. It
will be a welcome addition to the libraries of all who are involved
in the treatment of upper extremity problems, especially those involving
the elbow.