OVERALL RATING Good
STRENGTHS Review of anatomy; descriptions of newer techniques, treatments, and diagnostic equipment
WEAKNESSES Price; mediocre photographs; US pharmacology
AUDIENCE Physicians interested in the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of venous disease
The Fundamentals of Phlebology is a primer for clinicians on the pathophysiology and treatment of venous diseases. As stated by the editor, it is born of the lack of medical education and training in the care of a common morbidity.
The book contains good overviews of newer techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of venous disease, including light-pulse therapy, duplex ultrasonography–directed treatment, and radiofrequency ablation. It helpfully describes common pitfalls, sclerosing agents (albeit based on US pharmacopeia), and practice pearls such as postprocedure ambulation.
The book’s discussion of possible adverse events is wanting (eg, there is no mention of pulmonary embolus), but it does emphasize the necessity of planning rapid responses in case of medical emergencies well in advance (such as the suggestion of automated external defibrillators in every medical clinic in the event of anaphylaxis). It also stresses the importance of meeting or exceeding state (or provincial) standards and organizing malpractice insurance coverage for procedures as well as aftercare.
Chapters could be better organized with main headings at the beginning, and the book’s index is insufficient (eg, there is no listing under “necrosis,” one of the more common adverse reactions, although it is discussed). For $82.95, I was disappointed that the photo illustrations resembled those in glossy-print “miracle-cure” advertisements: the before and after shots had completely different lighting, which can inflate improvement.
Nothing can substitute hands-on experience in surgical procedures, so the book might best serve as a good companion text for physicians taking courses to upgrade their current skills, for residents training in phlebology, or for anyone interested in the newer techniques available.