MINNIS AND REINGOLD
8 SULLIVAN, H. J.: "Supernumerary Diaphragm with Agenesis of Upper Lobe," I. Thor. Sur,.,
34:544, 1957. 9 WELLS, L. J.: "Development of the Human Diaphrqm and Pleural SaeI," eMdr. to Em-
Diseases of
the Chest
br)lol., No. 236, Carnegie Publ., Wash., 35:
107, 1954.
For reprints, please write Dr. Minnis at St. Joseph Infirmary, Louiaville.
Book Reviews
Ph'Ysieal Diagnosis of H .art Dis.tu.. Bv NOBLE FowLEa, Macmillan Co., New York, 1962, 521 pagea, $12.50.
The study and care of heart patients is one of intense interest and in the light of present day statiatics one of increasing frequency. The busy physician encounten cardiac problems every day and mUit of necessity be aware of accurate and adequate diagnostic measures of which to avail himJelf to offer proper therapy to his patient. While many excellent comprehensive texts are available, Dr. Fowler in his book approaches the problem from the bedside and emphasizes for us the still basic concept that history and physical examination can be fundamental in diagnosis of cardiac disease. In a concise, clear manner, he accurately describes signs that are of value in the diagnosis of the pathologic and, when necessary, calls upon laboratory aids including x-ray, ECG, catheter and angiocardiographic studies to verify, confirm or contradict these signs. The explanation of normal, innocent and pathologic sounds is truly "music to my ean" and his simple 1, 2, 3 method of differential pouibilities in various states makes his book well worth reading. The title adequately explains that the basic format is physical diagnosis and thus comprehensive discussion of etiology, pathology and laboratory debate has been avoided and in its place an etiologic consideration of facton that could result in the abnormally presenting signs. In my opinion, Dr. Fowler has returned to the bedside in diagnosing heart disease and the book exemplifies the statement by Sidney Smith: "The writer does the most who gives his reader the most knowledge, and takes from him the least time." DEXTEa S. LEVY, M.D., F.C.C.P.
Clinical .Anatom'Y. By OTTo C. BIlANTlOAN, McGraw Hill, New York, 1963, 421 pages, $15. The title of this richly illustrated volume is not only inviting but also it prompts curiosity. Essentially, it is a practical book with dominant emphaail on clinical application. It contains a superior display of fundamental data and also, concise but lucid discuuion of the techniques of needle biopsy of the liver, retroperitoneal carbon dioxide injection, artificial pneumoperitoneum, surgical enhancement of coronary blood flow. Moreover, it is replete with items which have a useful bearing on obstetrical, general surgical and orthopedic practice. Chapten on incisions, abdominal hernias and fractures deserve special credit. The main
instnlmentality of the illustrations is a linear, black and white, contouring which reminds one of impressive etchings. of famous artists of the renaissance. The figune attest to precision in craftsmanship and perfection in adherence to true anatomic proportions. Consequently, the realism and dynamism of the drawings are so vivid that they seem to impart the illusion of motion and function. The arrows skillfully used as pointen in the diagrams, like magic wands, guide the reader to a quick comprehension of the subject portrayed. The clearcut, explicit text which serves as a legend as well as an annotation to the illustrations literally adds to them a third dimension. To sum up, this book may be looked upon as a remarkable prelude to perceptive clinical diagnosis, proficient surgery and efficient rehabilitation. Reading this volume rewards one not only with worthwhile knowledge but abo with the satisfaction of communing with a great clinician and brilliant teacher of medicine. ANDREW L. BANYAI, M.D., F.C.C.P.
Prim.r of Clinical M etuUr.m.nt of Blood Pressur•. Bv GEOaGE E. BuaCH, M.D. AND NICHOLAS P. DBPASQUALE, M.D., C. V. Mosby Company, St. Louis, 1962, 141 pages, $5.50. This monograph is a well written and clearly illustrated presentation of the principles, techniques and precautions used in the clinical meas; urement of systemic arterial blood pressure. Basically, this is a clinician's book treating perhaps a small area of practice, nevertheless, an exceedingly important one that cannot be overemphasized. It it timely since the interests in cardiovascular disturbances has grown in importance with the advances made in the prevention and treatment of hypertension and its related diseases. The material is presented in a comprehensive manner avoiding needleu discussion of controvenial areas 10 commonly found in the literature devoted to this subject. The chapter dealing with the sources of error should be read by every medical student, residellt and bUl)' practicing physician. The history and bibliography material is very complete although somewhat beyond the needs if a primer, whereas the chapter on physiology of arterial blood pressure is brief and limited. The philosophy of this treatise states that in view of· the problems in recording blood pressure in clinical medicine there is a need of presenting a method of accurate blood pressure determination-a worthy statement and a communication which attains its objectives. GEoaoE A. HELLMUTH, M.D., F.C.C.P.