Neurosurgeons Read
The AANS Neurosurgeon invites readers to contribute brief reviews of a recently read book in any genre. The two reviews in this issue indicate that neurosurgeons are reading for business and for pleasure.
Before You Go Under: A Step by Step Guide to Ease Your Mind Before Going Under Anesthesia, Benjamin Taimoorazy, MD, 2008, AccuPress, Bloomington, Ill., 195 pp., $14.95.
A staggering 30 million medical and surgical procedures utilizing anesthetics are performed each year in the United States. Neurosurgeons spend a great deal of time explaining the risks and benefits of these procedures and must frequently address and allay a variety of patient concerns regarding anesthetic delivery, complicating factors, comorbidities, and urban legends. In this age of ready access to the information superhighway, many patients present unique challenges to both surgeon and anesthesiologist in preparing them for operative management and achieving the best possible outcomes.
Benjamin Taimoorazy, MD, a board-certified anesthesiologist concentrating in neurosurgical procedures, has written a step-by-step guide that explains to patients, in lay terms, the process of anesthesia. As he developed this book he wrote down and answered every question he received from patients prior to surgery. He details the different types of anesthetics commonly used in today’s procedures, including general, spinal, epidural, local, regional and conscious sedation, and explains why certain anesthetics are better suited for particular procedures than others. He also emphasizes the importance of providing to both the surgeon and the anesthesiologist an accurate medical history, including height, weight, medication use and herbal supplements, and he explains how this information influences the type, dosage and concentrations of anesthetic medication required. He also addresses many common and not-so-common concerns raised by patients such as the occurrence of nightmares during and after surgery, fear of needles, headaches after anesthesia, blood transfusions, pregnancy, and pediatric and geriatric considerations. Describing know-ledge as empowerment, Dr. Taimoorazy simplifies how anesthetics work, explains advances in the delivery of anesthesia and what to expect, and reminds patients of their own role in preparation and recovery. From start to finish, this is an engaging, quick read that likely will give even the most apprehensive patient peace of mind.
Ann R. Stroink, MD, Bloomington, Ill. Dr. Stroink reported no conflicts for disclosure.
Consent to Kill, Vince Flynn, 2006, Pocket Books, New York, N.Y. 704 pp. (paperback), $9.99.
This entertaining book is the latest in the series of international spy thrillers involving CIA special agent Mitch Rapp. He continues to wage the global war on terror after he is personally attacked in an assassination attempt. He successfully tracks down those involved by leaving the confines of CIA headquarters to serve justice. This is a quick read and a page-turner for those looking for a fictional political/espionage thriller with the inside research that makes the story come to life.
Christopher J. Koebbe, MD, San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Koebbe reported no conflicts for disclosure.
Submitting Reviews
Reviews of no more than 300 words should relate the book’s value as
an interesting, entertaining, or enlightening work. A link to information on
all types of submissions to the AANS Neurosurgeon is available at https://www.aansneurosurgeon.org.