Fast Avital and Goldsher Dorith, Demos Medical Publishing, New York, 2007, 179 pages, $105.00, ISBN 1-888799-98-6 / 978-1-88799-98-9

Navigating the Adult Spine: Bridging Clinical Practice and Neuroradiology is an excellent review of anatomy, pathophysiology, and radiology of common spinal disorders. The information is presented in a clear, concise manner that is enhanced by well-labeled diagrams and radiographic images. Extensive bibliographies of current literature accompany each chapter, facilitating further reading on selected subjects. This book is a valuable reference for neuroscience nurses who wish to enhance their knowledge of common spinal disorders and related radiological imaging.

The first chapter provides an overview of spinal anatomy. Most of the anatomy discussion centers on "bony" elements such as vertebra and ligaments. There is a short section on "Neural Elements," which includes a brief description of exiting nerve roots in relation to their corresponding vertebrae; however, anatomy of the spinal cord columns and tracts are beyond the scope of this book.

The remaining chapters present information on commonly encountered spinal disorders ranging from degenerative to infectious and neoplastic pathology. Although the chapters are relatively short (usually ranging from 8 to 10 pages), pertinent information is clearly presented for each topic. Each clinical entity is described in terms of pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and medical/surgical management. The diagrams and imaging studies included with each topic further enhance the reader's understanding of the subject matter.

Neuroscience nurses from novice to expert can benefit from the information presented in this book. The novice nurse will find it to be a clear and concise explanation of common spinal disorders, while the expert nurse will view the information as an excellent review. The price may be a deterrent for personal purchase; perhaps the wiser investment would be to purchase it for a nursing unit or as an office reference.