Krings T, Geibprasert S, Cruz JP, terBrugge KG, eds. Neurovascular Anatomy in Interventional Neuroradiology: A Case-Based Approach. Thieme; 2015; 244 pp; 1145 ill; $119.99

While it would appear by the title of this book that the intended audience are those who are delivering intravascular neuroradiology services, it becomes clear, by going through these cases  that there is benefit to all neuroradiologists. The book, edited by Drs. Krings, Geibprasert, Cruz, and terBrugge, basically describes 43 vascular scenarios, divided between anatomic areas: aortic arch (2), ICA (7), anterior circulation (8), posterior circulation (7), ECA (7), cerebral veins (7), spine (5). In each of these sections, approximately the same outline is followed, viz the clinical history is briefly described, the pertinent anatomy (and where appropriate the embryology), the clinical impact, and appropriate imaging is shown. This is not a book designed to show how to treat various anomalies and lesions involving the cerebral vascular system; rather, it crisply shows the anatomy and variations in each area.

The images are well chosen and they make the points that are raised in the text very clear (aside from some scattered malapropisms, eg, in describing a fusiform aneurysm from the left AICA, the legends say that “as it had not to hemorrhage”).

As is common in books these days, each case or topic ends with a table entitled “Pearls and Pitfalls”, in which a variable number of bulletpoints (2 to 6) are listed. These, of course, highlight areas mentioned in the text.

Many points germane to both diagnostic and interventional neuroradiology are part of the book: for instance, how perforators from the basilar artery are clustered, distinguishing fenestrations from intravascular thrombi, named peripheral segments arising from major intracerebral arteries, and many, many more.

The book was meant to be concise, and it succeeds in that regard. However, the embryology in some places is a bit difficult to digest (for example, the development of the cavernous sinus) without accompanying drawings to show the various stages. Those who may wish to dig a bit deep into the embryology of those various areas will have to consult accompanying references.

Again, the illustrated material is excellent, and scrutiny of the images and the accompanying legends alone justify purchase of this book. There is much material packed therein. It is recommended for all neuroradiology libraries.