Ultrasound of the Eye and Orbit. 2nd Edition

Ultrasound of the Eye and Orbit. 2nd Edition, Sandra Frazier Byrne and Ronald Green, MD. Mosby Inc., St. Louis, 2002. ISBN: 0-323-01207-8. Price: $149.00

Scope: This multiauthored updated second edition is a comprehensive text about ultrasonography of the eye, covering basic theory as well as ocular and orbital pathology amenable to ultrasound evaluation.

Content: The book is divided into three divisions. The first division is composed of two chapters dealing with basic ultrasound theory and examination techniques. Throughout this section, as in the whole text, excellent diagrams and images are used to enhance the reader's understanding.

The second division covers intraocular echography. Five chapters dealing with ultrasonic evaluation of intraocular anatomy and pathology cover vitreoretinal disease and intraocular tumors, trauma, inflammatory conditions, and glaucoma. Chapters 8 and 9 provide new information dealing with ultrasonic biomicroscopy and three-dimensional ultrasound. There is a greatly expanded chapter on axial length measurements, providing in-depth assistance of IOL calculations including a section on troubleshooting.

The third division deals primarily with orbital ultrasound, and includes expanded evaluation techniques, with emphasis on tumors and vascular lesions. Chapter 14 gives a succinct introduction to Color Doppler Imaging and its potential uses. Chapters 15-17 cover the traditional ultrasonic techniques in evaluating extraocular muscles, the optic nerve, orbital trauma, and periorbital disease; they conclude with a helpful section on ultrasonic artifacts.

Strengths: This is an extremely readable, well-organized text that continues to be an excellent reference standard for ocular and orbital echography. The diagrams and images accompanying the written material make for a seamless fit. The techniques identified are so well written that they can be easily reproduced in one's practice setting.

Weaknesses: No mention is made of the non-contact technique for measuring axial length. An explanation of optical biometry using such technology as the IOL Master from Zeiss/Humphrey would have further enhanced an already excellent section of axial length measurements.

Recommended Audience: The text is applicable to anyone involved or interested in becoming involved in ultrasonography of the eye and orbit. The step-wise techniques are useful not only to technicians but also other health care providers involved in eye care. The book will serve an excellent reference for medical students, residents, and ancillary medical staff.

Critical Appraisal: The authors have written a comprehensive text that continues to be a gold standard in its field.

Ronald A. Braswell, MD

The University of Mississippi School of Medicine Jackson, Mississippi