The Principles and Practice of Rhinology,

Abstract

Rhinology is an area of great interest to almost all practicing otorhinolaryngologists since, as the editor points out in the preface, as many as 80% of the patients seen in a general otolaryngology practice have some nasal or sinus complaint. This comprehensive text spans the spectrum of rhinologic interests, from anatomy and embryology to complex operative procedures in a single volume of slightly over 900 pages. It is edited by a distinguished rhinologist, with a highly respected panel of contributing authors.The text is organized into three sections. The first third of the book covers "Basic Topics," including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, immunology, and diagnosis, including radiographic evaluation and rhinomanometry. This section begins with an outstandingly lucid description of nasal and paranasal anatomy by Ritter. Goldman's chapter on vasomotor rhinitis clarifies much of the confusion that often accompanies this topic. The allergy chapters (by Fadal, Nalebuff, King, and Williams) cover logically the use of the radioallergosorbent test and end-point titration, immunotherapy, and food allergy.The middle third of the book is devoted to "Surgery of the Nose and Paranasal Sinuses." Topics covered include basic ones such as the Cald¬ well-Luc operation, treatment of the obstructing septum, and surgical treatment of epistaxis. The majority of this section, however, is devoted to more complex procedures and prob¬ lems, such as lateral rhinotomy, maxillectomy, the midface degloving approach, craniofacial resection, and posterior choanal atresia. Although these chapters are not intended as a surgical atlas, the clarity of descrip¬ tions and the plentitude of drawings and photographs would almost permit them to function as one. As an over¬ view of surgical procedures of the nose and sinuses, they are unparal¬ leled. Their usefulness is enhanced by the reference lists following each chapter, leading the interested reader to both classic and state-of-the-art articles on each subject.The last third of the book covers "Special Topics." These include sur¬ gery for exophthalmos, odontogenic lesions, snoring, olfaction, pediatrie rhinology, and emotional factors affecting nasal disease. The chapter on functional endoscopie sinus sur¬ gery is also contained in this section. This text is a comprehensive refer¬ ence for the rhinologist. As such, it should find a favored place in the personal libraries of most residents and practicing otorhinolaryngologists.