Clinical Problems in Vascular Surgery

Book Reviews S E C T I O N E D I T O R : W i l l i a m C. K r u p s k i Clinical P r o b l e m s i n V a s c u l a r Surgery Robert B. Galland and Charles A.C. C1yne, eds. E. Arnold UK, 1994. Pages: 266. Price: $85. The objective of this textbook was to bring together several experienced vascular surgeons to provide a background of common clinical problems seen in vascular surgery. This is a clinical textbook and is intended for vascular surgeons, or those currently in specialty training, who can expect to manage these common problems in their clinical practices. This short textbook of 266 pages could easily be digested as a review prior to specialty examinations. This multiauthored text consists of 27 chapters by 35 contributing authors. The chapters summarize all of the major topics within vascular surgery. Each chapter is concise and to the point, and highlights only the important issues. In addition to the frontline topics (e.g., acute and chronic occlusive disease, aneurysms, carotid disease, trauma, renal artery disease, and venous disease), there is a brief history of vascular surgery along with a glimpse into the future of this specialty. Also of side interest is a chapter that highlights the importance, organization, and principles of a comprehensive vascular audit that emphasizes quality control. Another interesting and useful addition to this textbook is the final chapter, which is an overview of data or information available on the natural history of disease that is relevant to decision making in vascular surgery. This textbook is recommended as a brief review of common topics in vascular surgery that is suitable for the practicing vascular surgeon as well as the trainee who is preparing for examinations. It is not meant to be a comprehensive reference text. It should be of particular interest to a North American audience since all of the contributing authors are from Great Britain, which offers a unique perspective. Peter G. Kalman, MD

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Vascular Nursing Victoria A. Fahey. Philadelphia: WB Saunders, 1994. Pages: 598. Price: $84. Presented in five sections, this text is directed primarily at nurses but would also serve as an excellent resource for other vascular clinical specialists. The opening section, entitled "Basic Considerations," consists of three chapters that provide a superb overview of the arterial, venous, and lymphatic systems. Anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology relating to each system are presented in a dear, concise fashion. Later chapters offer detailed descriptions of arterial and venous disease processes, their clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and nursing interventions. Of special interest to nurses are the nursing care plans, which present "Nursing Diagnosis," "Expected Outcome," and "Nursing Intervention" for specific surgical procedures of the arterial and venous systems. Potential problems, alterations, and deficits relating to both pre- and postoperative phases are presented. Another section is dedicated to perioperative evaluation and management. Areas such as physical assessment, noninvasive vascular testing, patient education, medications, and coagulation problems are addressed. The accompanying photographs, illustrations, and tables both complement and enhance the written text. Those areas involving patient education and medication are especially pertinent for nurses. Included in the final section are unique problems that pertain to the vascular patient. Vascular access surgery, amputation, and vascular trauma are among the topics discussed. The vascular trauma chapter, although brief, contains concise descriptions of various mechanisms of injury, clinical manifestations, treatment, and nursing management. This segment in combination with the other sections provides an excellent resource for vascular nurses, technologists, and various clinical specialists who desire an overview of current methods of vascular diagnosis and treatment. Patricia J. Tormey, RN, BSN, RVT