Phoebe A. Kaplan, Clyde A. Helms, Robert Dussault,
Mark W. Anderson, and Nancy M. Major, editors. Philadelphia: W.B.
Saunders; 2001. 456 pages. $95.00.
The preface of this text indicates that the intended audience
is "residents in training and physicians in practice," for
whom all-encompassing references on this topic are overwhelming.
Several literally weightier tomes on the subject of magnetic resonance
imaging are in print, but this book is a well-intentioned,
expertly crafted, and beautifully illustrated compendium
of useful information. At a trim 3 lb (1.4 kg), this practical text
is more likely to find its way into the resident’s backpack
or locker than it is to gather dust on the bookshelf.
The contents are evenly divided among general topics, specific
large and small joints, and the spine. An introductory chapter systematically
addresses the basic physics of magnetic resonance imaging, normal
findings, and common imaging pitfalls. All current commonly employed
pulse sequences are thoroughly described so that the reader can
understand the rationale for the design and interpretation of a specific
imaging examination. A two-page glossary of common terms
related to musculoskeletal magnetic resonance imaging
explains and reinforces the language of the specialty. Throughout
the book, highlighted boxes and detailed text complement one another,
with selected magnetic resonance images illustrating important points.
Many of the other musculoskeletal magnetic resonance imaging
textbooks incorporate atlases of the major joints imaged in three
orthogonal planes. This text neither replaces nor competes with
the atlases. Although such atlases serve as invaluable references,
they are much too heavy to lug around. In addition, other major
texts include correlative images, including radiographs, computed
tomographic scans, and nuclear scintigraphs; none of these are found
in this work. Line drawings are simply employed to clarify basic
anatomy and to illustrate scout views and final images of the axial
and appendicular skeleton.
Imaging protocols vary from institution to institution and are
dictated by personal and aesthetic considerations, hardware and
software variations, and the preferences of the referring
physicians. The authors’ approach is set forth in cookbook
fashion, with recipes for protocols that are easily reproduced.
I would caution the reader to take the recommendations with a grain
of salt. Many different approaches are valid, whereas others are
downright inadequate. The authors describe their approach, which
is one—but certainly not the only—valid approach
to musculoskeletal magnetic resonance imaging.
This text offers "a lot of bang for the buck." Although
designed for radiologists, I believe that orthopaedists in training
and in practice will find this an accessible and affordable addition
to their library.