Sanna M, Piazza P, Shin S-H, et al. Microsurgery of Skull Base Paragangliomas. Thieme; 2013; 716 pgs.; 1874 illustrations; $249.99
The successful management of paragangliomas of the head and neck, relatively rare and complex tumors, requires the physician to develop an understanding of the anatomy, radiographic imaging, and available surgical approaches. Treatment is uniquely suited for the multidisciplinary skull base approach, drawing on the expertise of neuroradiologists, otolaryngologists, neurosurgeons, and radiation oncologists. As a result, the existing literature is often “spread out” among the journals of different specialties and a multitude of textbooks. Microsurgery of Skull Base Paragangliomas addresses this problem by drawing on literature from all specialties and providing one of the most comprehensive texts to date. The book benefits from its systematic presentation of the subject matter. Through excellent images and thorough, well-written chapters, the management of paragangliomas is presented to a multitude of audiences spanning varying specialties and levels of expertise. The book is clearly meant to be an instructional guide, and is written in a way that maximizes the teaching value of the text.
The book benefits from three distinct advantages when compared to similar works covering the same subject.
The first is the quality of the images, which consist of radiographic images, detailed illustrations, and high-quality intraoperative photographs. The labeling is clear and accurate, and it is evident that great care was taken in the selection of images. Accompanying legends are concise, appropriately descriptive, and complement the text. Operative photographs, which can often be difficult to interpret in other books, are clarified here by simplified full-color illustrations. The images are also organized efficiently and systematically, beginning with preoperative imaging of the pathology, progressing to illustrations of the anatomy and planned operative approach, and concluding with intraoperative pictures and postoperative imaging. The result is a visual stepwise progression of treatment throughout each chapter.
Second is the comprehensive nature of the text, which manages to encompass nearly every aspect of the pathophysiology, anatomy, and treatment of paragangliomas. When one considers the diversity of these tumors, it is quite impressive that one text could provide such all-inclusive coverage of the topic. There is little need to consult other texts for clarification; however, anyone interested in additional reading will have no difficulty in identifying the most up-to-date materials. Each chapter provides an extensive list of references that draws from the current literature and reflects the most contemporary trends in management. The vast majority of referenced material is from the top journals in multiple fields.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly for the surgical audience, the third advantage is the inclusion of particularly challenging or complex tumors and clinical scenarios with management strategies. There is a special emphasis on potential complications encountered in the operating room and the postoperative period. These aspects of care are far too often relegated to the last page of a chapter in other books; however, here they are examined in detail. The result is a uniquely instructive book for neurosurgeons- and otolaryngologists-in-training.
As the title suggests, Microsurgery of Skull Base Paragangliomas is primarily directed toward a neurosurgical and otolaryngology audience. Practitioners from both specialties will find this book to be an absolute necessary addition to their collection. The focus on surgical technique, inclusion of operative pitfalls, and the identification of particularly challenging aspects of surgical intervention are among the most important highlights. The focus on surgical management does not mean that the text is restricted to this audience. Instead, the authors have composed a book in which neuroradiologists-in-training and experienced practitioners will undoubtedly find utility. Neuroanatomy of the skull base is highlighted in the early chapters and reinforced throughout the book. The anatomical dissections are clearly labeled and focus on the skull base anatomy encountered on radiographic imaging and in surgical intervention. An entire chapter is dedicated to radiographic imaging of the skull base, complete with CT, MRI, and angiographic images. Axial and coronal CTs detail bony anatomy and multiple T1- and T2-weighted MRIs images highlight the pertinent soft tissue structures. Of particular usefulness are the angiographic images, which display both the arterial and venous phases of carotid and vertebral injections. These photographs are paired with incredibly well-drawn and well-labeled illustrations that solidify the angiographic anatomy for the reader.
Microsurgery of Skull Base Paragangliomas is a well-composed text that will appeal to a large audience across a wide range of specialties and levels of expertise. The neuroradiology audience will benefit from the anatomical and radiographic discussions, but will also appreciate the excellent clinical correlations made throughout the book. The subject material is thoroughly covered and represents one of the most comprehensive texts on paragangliomas. Neurosurgeons and otolaryngologists will surely appreciate the high-quality intraoperative images and the focus on microsurgical technique. After a thorough review, we highly recommend this book to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge base on what is often a complicated subject.
