Abstract
This well-established text, now in its seventh edition, is authored by experts from the USA and is aimed at residents and practitioners. I agree that it should indeed appeal to obstetricians and gynaecologists with an interest in ultrasound, along with sonographers, midwives and anyone else involved in ultrasound imaging in these disciplines.
This chunky book comprises 48 chapters over 1342 pages. It is logically presented, progressing from normal and routine obstetric examinations through abnormalities and pathology. The gynaecology section covers a wide range of pathologies from the commonly encountered to the rare. The final section about complementary imaging modalities is a useful addition and where non-ultrasound images are included, they are clearly detailed. This book covers all expected areas as stated, with no obvious omissions.
I particularly like the fact that at the start of each chapter, definitions of relevant keywords and principles are provided and each chapter ends with a summary of key points. Clinical correlate sections are included throughout with multiple choice responses. This useful resource then provides an explanation to support the correct answer.
Chapter one on ultrasound bioeffects and safety is supported by some historical perspectives and relevant contemporary research studies. While this is a North American textbook, it does refer to international organizations, including the BMUS recommendations which are highlighted as most rigorous.
Although this is a very comprehensive text, there are some variations compared with the current UK national recommendations, particularly in the sections on fetal biometry and screening. Therefore, readers should remain aware of this and use the book in a supplementary capacity alongside UK national and departmental protocols.
Another useful addition to this book is that significant particulars are identified in bold font. An example of this is when discussing the ideal stage of the menstrual cycle to ensure accuracy when performing 3D (three-dimensional) evaluation of the endometrium (Chapter 37). There are also useful sections on care and cleaning of a transvaginal transducer (Chapters 2 and 37). While this might seem obvious to some, its inclusion affirms the importance of such procedures.
On the whole, the ultrasound images included are of fair-to-good quality. Ultrasound image resolution has come a long way in 20 years and some of the old images dated in the early 1990s would benefit from being replaced in subsequent editions. Images are reinforced by clear anatomical diagrams and photographs, some of which would benefit from more labelling. Relevant references and correlation to guidelines are interspersed throughout the text.
In my opinion this book represents value for money at £123.99, and would be a useful addition as a reference text for a departmental collection rather than for individuals.
