As a longtime instructor of veterinary radiology, the author, Susie Ayers has set out to produce a practical textbook that will help bring understanding of digital radiography into the realm of general practice. After witnessing a remarkable evolution in the imaging sciences over the course of her career, she designed the text to encompass discussion of both film and digital radiography to bring the two worlds together within the context of radiographic procedures common to both. The author does this by comparing and contrasting manual and digital equipment and techniques alongside discussion and descriptions of radiographic positioning commonly utilized in veterinary practice.
The book is comprised of 16 chapters color tabbed for easy identification and then further divided into three sections. Section one: theory and equipment, details the theory, terminology and equipment needed for the processing of radiographs ranging from manual film processing to managing digital cassettes and software. Section two: radiographic positioning contains numerous detailed line drawings and clear images of the desired radiographs as well a brief discussion on procedures for each radiographic position. The third section: contrast media and special procedures, gives a general overview of contrast media and procedures performed in general and exotic practice. Numerous clear illustrations, radiographic images, charts and diagrams are also utilized throughout the text.
A comprehensive reference list as well as a webligraphy is provided for readers seeking more detailed information.
As an added bonus, a companion website is included, which provides an in-depth review quiz students will find helpful in their studies and includes easily printable copies of the book’s images in PowerPoint format. It is suggested by the author (and I agree) that these images could be a useful tool for presentations or in discussion with clients to help with anatomical explanations. The only requirement for copyright purposes is the reference to the book (supplied) is displayed along with the image.
Unfortunately, while numerous radiographs of the head and jaw are depicted, dental specific radiography is not discussed nor are calibration balls which are utilized in digital radiography; these are some things the author may wish to consider including in future editions as digital radiography becomes more popular and mainstream. Despite this, I believe this book will prove a useful starting point to students entering practice as well as serving as a practical manual for veterinarians and technicians alike as they move toward digital radiography.
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell, 2012.
ISBN 978-0-813-81152-9
VIN Bookstore: Currently unavailable