British Journal of Radiology (2003) 76, 284-285
© 2003 British Institute of Radiology
doi:
Endoscopic evaluation and treatment of swallowing disorders. By S E Langmore, pp. x+263, 2001 (Thieme Medical Publishers, New York, NY), € 116.57 ISBN 0-86577-838-8
S Golding
Understanding and management of disorders of swallowing has gathered momentum over the last two decades and although most investigative attention still applies to imaging, endoscopy has also developed. Admittedly, this has not had the same impact on imaging as gastric or colonic endoscopy but it is still good to welcome this comprehensive review of what is happening in oropharyngeal endoscopy, particularly in the field of functional studies.
In any event, this book offers the radiologist much more. The authors have found it appropriate to describe functional endoscopy in relationship to the science and medicine of deglutitional disease and the book therefore provides valuable insights on clinical management, seen through the eyes of a different investigation technique. An early example of this is provided by the chapter on anatomy, which contains everything the interested trainee radiologist needs to know about the basic science of this area.
Emphasis is made throughout the book on sound technique, firmly based on an understanding of the processes involved in normal and abnormal swallowing. The authors have also been very good at indicating where endoscopy complements other techniques and also what its limitations are. That said, it is salutatory to learn just how far this technique can go in the hands of a practiced specialist. The authors are also not afraid to approach some of the controversies in swallowing work and some of the sections debating current evidence are stimulating to the interested radiologist. Therapy is the one area where diagnostic imaging cannot follow and it is helpful to have a summary of what is possible by endoscopic technique. A final section giving recommended reading and key references is a valuable asset.
Naturally, the one feature of endoscopic work which cannot be adequately demonstrated by the written and illustrated page is real-time evaluation and I found myself wishing that this book was accompanied by a CD rom or video. Nonetheless, it is an expert, comprehensive and thought-provoking production, which has a lot to offer radiologists working in swallowing disease.
