Let me say at the outset that this is by far the best comprehensive book on neuroradiology that I have yet encountered. The usual problems regarding multipleauthor texts do not arise here. It is inevitable that some of the chapters are better than others, but even the weaker chapters are still good. Henceforth, when residents ask me to recommend a neuroradiology text, this book is going to be it.
With some major exceptions, discussed below, the entire field of neuroradiology is covered. Subjects range from anesthesia for radiologic procedures to magnetic resonance and positron emission tomography. Coverage of each subject is exhaustive so far as space permits. The references are plentiful, well selected, and recent. The illustrations are profuse and of extremely high quality. The index is detailed, does what it is supposed to do, and contains relatively few cross-references. The format, printing, and binding are first class and are a credit to the publisher's craft. The price is rather steep but well worth it for a volume of this size and quality.
The editing is generally excellent, although one occasionally runs across a sentence like this (page 599): "In 3 of 14 positive (multiple sclerosis) cases, the lesions were single, while in all of 14 positive cases they were multiple." Also, on page 197 there is a single sentence containing 166 words, one colon, five semicolons, two typographical errors, and several unfamiliar abbreviations, one of which is repeated nine times.
Although excellent chapters on the spine, ear, and orbits are included, there is nothing on the pharynx, larynx, and neck. The paranasal sinuses and face are also not included except for passing mention in other chapters. The editors apparently do not consider these regions as falling within the province of neuroradiology. I do.
During my daily work over a 1-week period, I subjected this book to the supreme test. Whenever a question arose, I consulted the appropriate chapter and was seldom disappointed. I learned a lot and I found that some of the things I thought I "knew" were wrong.
All physicians involved in neuroradiologic procedures should obtain this book (otolaryngologists perhaps excepted).