Imaging of the Foot and Ankle.

Imaging of the Foot and Ankle

This reference book would be most appropriate for radiologists, orthopedic surgeons, podiatrists, and rheumatologists involved in the interpretation of imaging studies of the foot and ankle. It was written by three knowledgeable and respected physicians.

The purpose of the book is to provide information that is difficult to find in other sources. It includes the most current information regarding radiography of the foot and ankle.

The text is divided into three parts. Part 1 uses labeled photographs of cadaver sections to compare anatomical structures against magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Radiographs of the normal foot and radiographic positioning accompanied by a description of the positioning are included. Part 2 covers the radiology and the conditions of pathological feet. Radiographs are pictured demonstrating the pathology of the abnormal and diseased foot and ankle. The pathologies described range from congenital disorders to sports injuries, arthritis, and bone tumors. Part 3 deals with the advanced imaging of foot and ankle disorders, with concise text and photographs included of conventional tomography, radionuclide imaging, arthrography, computer tomography, and MRI. This section demonstrates clear and concise differences among the various techniques, their specific needs as diagnostic tools, and the differences in imaging. The last chapter in Part 3 is devoted entirely to MRI. It presents the physical principles, biological effects, safety considerations, and imaging techniques of the foot and ankle. Using labeled photographs of MRI, the authors demonstrate the usefulness of this technique in detecting and delineating tumors, soft tissue lesions, and bony fractures of the foot and ankle.

The authors have organized the information in a concise and practical fashion that makes for enjoyable and beneficial reading. The book would be of great value to physical therapists interested in using and interpreting imaging of the foot and ankle. The black and white photographs are clear and vivid. A well-selected bibliography provides the reader with easy access to information from other related sources.