Labadie RF, Fitzpatrick JM. Image-Guided Surgery: Fundamentals and Clinical Applications in Otolaryngology. Plural Publishing; 2016; 232 pp; $149.95
Image-Guided Surgery: Fundamentals and Clinical Applications in Otolaryngology by Robert Labadie and Michael Fitzpatrick is a unique book. The focus is on ear, nose, and throat procedures, while the discussion and scientific reviews are comprehensive of the IGS field. This work is a highly comprehensive review appropriate for the neuroradiology audience as well as for otolaryngologists and anyone who wants be educated in this burgeoning technology. The authors make good use of figures to illustrate both straightforward and complex issues. Assertions are appropriately referenced with the current literature. Particularly useful are the highlighted text boxes, bolded text, and summary sections for take-home pearls.
I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to practicing physicians and trainees in radiology, otolaryngology, neurosurgery, and related specialties. Though it is of appropriate length (read: “not too long”), it does take some effort to get through some of the meat of the text, especially the technical portions incorporating mathematical equations to support the analysis. As the authors note, however, basic understanding of algebra can get you through it if you take the time. Also, appropriately, they emphasize the various forms of error inherent to IGS, as misinterpreting accuracy statistics can lead to inappropriate application of the technology. Insightful discussions about the future of IGS and a comparison of currently available systems complete the text.
