Microsurgical anatomy of the skull base and approaches to the cavernous sinus

Book Reviews Microsurgical Anatomy of the Skull Base and Approaches to the Cavernous Sinus by Chandranath Sen, Chung SiangChen, and Kalmon D. Post. New York, NY, Thieme, 1997, 269 pages, $189.00. This book is a photographic atlas aimed at surgeons with an interest in the skull base. The atlas is divided into two main sections. Section I addresses the anatomy of the skull base, emphasizing pertinent microsurgical landmarks. This section comprises eight chapters that cover the anatomy of the major neurovascular structures and the bony framework of the skull base. Stepwise dissections, advancing from wide views of specific areas to views with greater magnification, guide the reader through the anatomy of the internal carotid artery, venous system, cranial nerves, petrous temporal bone, orbit, sella turcica, and sphenoid sinus. The last two chapters of this section cover the infratemporal fossa and the transoral perspective of the midline and paramedian skull base. Section II includes two chapters that address the general principles of craniotomies and craniofacial osteotomies, as well as detailed descriptions of different intracranial approaches to specific regions. The description of surgical approaches is comprehensive, and the authors include their various techniques and modifications to be applied during special circumstances. The anatomy is well-illustrated, using superb photography of exquisite cadaver dissections. The dissected structures are very well-identified, and the identification codes are uniform throughout the text. The text is clear and concise and has been kept to a minimum to be in agreement with its atlas format. At the end of every chapter, the reader may find some stereoscopic pictures that, although somewhat difficult to master, provide some depth perception of the different anatomic structures. This book is obviously the product of intensive work and attention to detail. It should be an essential reference for any surgeon who works within this region. Ricardo

L. Carrau, Pittsburgh,

ENT Secrets by Bruce Jafek, MD, and Anne MD. Philadelphia, PA, Hanley and Belfus, softbound, 464 pages, $35.95.

MD PA Stark, 1996,

What an unfortunate title, ENT Secrets, for such a wonderfully informative and enjoyably readable handbook full of nuggets. This soft-cover text is truly extensive in its coverage of the field of ENT and it is not just full of secrets. The text is written in a Socratic fashion with questions asked and then briefly answered. The 144

American

Journal

of Otolaryngology,

twelve major sections cover almost the entire field of otolaryngology, from otology, through nose and sinuses, endoscopy, facial plastic surgery, and tumors. There is a section on pediatric otolaryngology as well as related specialties. The final chapter is especially enjoyable with the title “Minute in Otolaryngology,” (things you shouldn’t really be expected to know, but will really impress the attending on rounds or in conferences). This book is ideal for residents at all levels of their training. It also would be a great text for medical students. It is written to be read and yet it is very thorough. There is a good, brief, up-to-date bibliography at the end of each chapter, and at the price of $35.95, it is a real bargain. I heartily recommend this gem to all who are looking for a great overview of the field of ENT and that’s no secret. Roger S. Kaufman, MD Syracuse, NY Clinical Otology (ed 2) by Miles Pensak. New York, NY, Thieme, 1997,480 pages, $139.00. The second edition of Clinical Otology shows a vast improvement from the initial publication in 1985. Dr Hughes has not only collaborated with Dr Pensak in this effort, but has made much greater use of contributing authors than was the case in the first edition. The newer edition is only some 45 pages longer than the first edition, but the page size of the book and the smaller print account for the fact that there is much greater content within it. The photography was once again was provided by Dr Eiji Yanagasawa and his color photographs are particularly noteworthy. The section on basic sciences is updated and well done. The chapter on molecular biology as related to otology is particularly cogent and well-written, without excessive detail for the clinician. Evaluation is separated into a section, and is written very concisely in each chapter. The new chapter on hereditary hearing loss is well presented, as is the new chapter on immunological disorders. The section of the book on rehabilitation contains separate chapters on aural, vestibular, and facial nerve rehabilitation, and has been well thought out. In summary, this text is an excellent primer for either the resident or practicing otolaryngologist. Although it was not intended to provide indepth information on any particular subject, the references are excellent and provide this opportunity, if needed. With the excellent illustrations, I believe this volume will be a significant addition to any library.

Vol 19, No 2 (March-April),

Donald 1998:

pp 144-l

45

B. Kamerer, Pittsburgh,

MD PA