This is a multi-author textbook with contributions from cardiologists and radiologists, and is aimed at those interested in cardiac imaging. The volume is divided into two sections. The first section covers the different types of investigations available, including conventional plain radiography, echocardiography, MRI, CT scanning, angiography and nuclear medicine, as would be expected.
The first chapter, which covers conventional radiography, serves as an excellent introduction to the book. It is important not to overlook such a simple text and the chapter is beautifully illustrated with diagrams and examples of plain radiographs, including annotated tables to help remind the reader of the key features.
We are then taken on a journey through echocardiography, nuclear medicine, imaging, including PET scanning, MRI and CT scanning. I found the chapter on coronary calcium scoring and CT coronary angiography of particular interest, having recently attended a course on this subject. The principles of CT scanning and its application in coronary calcium scoring and CT coronary angiography are covered succinctly but clearly.
Throughout the book, the images are of excellent quality, as would be expected. The chapters are also well referenced for those with an interest in further reading.
The second section covers the imaging of specific cardiac diseases, such as congenital heart disease in adults, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, cardiac tumours and diseases of the great pulmonary vessels, including the thoracic aorta. All of the chapters are beautifully illustrated with excellent examples of the conditions described and the layout of the book makes it a pleasure to read and assimilate the knowledge within.
This cardiac imaging textbook will provide an excellent introduction to the subject for those who are interested in learning these techniques. Cardiac disease continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality throughout not only the western world, but also the developing world. This makes the subject of cardiac imaging all the more pertinent and I am sure this textbook will be well thumbed by a wide range of medical personnel.