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Book, Multimedia, and Software Reviews |
The introductory chapters describe, in simple terms, the causes and types of strokes. Black-and-white figures describe the different brain structures and show how they are affected by either hemorrhagic or ischemic strokes. Then, the cardiovascular conditions that can lead to stroke (eg, atherosclerosis, hypertension, embolism, atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, heart valve malformation, and aneurysm) are described in text and drawings. A discussion of risk factors and how to manage them in order to prevent stroke follows. This includes managing hypertension or stopping smoking.
Next, the author describes the functions of different parts of the brain and the cerebrovascular supply, which leads the reader to a clear understanding of stroke symptoms when one of these brain structures is damaged. The tests and measures that may be used to diagnose a stroke and its cause are explained. Black-and-white pictures of angiograms illustrated by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans illustrate how these tests help the physician diagnose the cause, location, and extent of a stroke.
Diagnosis leads logically to the next chapter on the medical management after a stroke. This chapter includes pharmacologic and surgical interventions, such as the thrombolytic agent tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA), endarterectomy, or angioplasty and stenting for ischemic situations, and surgical corrections and lowering of blood pressure for hemorrhagic conditions. Because many other complications may arise, individual patient examples are included to demonstrate the complexity of treatment decisions for this patient group.
The description of the rehabilitation process and recovery from the changes after a stroke includes a good overview of the role of physical therapists and other health care professionals. The descriptions of the physical, cognitive, behavioral, and emotional changes that may occur are easy for a patient or loved one to understand. A positive outlook is shared with the reader, and encouragement that most patients do improve is given. This encouragement is extended in a practical way in the appendix titled, "Tips for Stroke Heroes and Those Who Care for Them."
Four patient case examples conclude the book, providing complete stories covering details from prestroke medical history to several months after stroke and well into the recovery phase. Another appendix, "Negotiating the Insurance Maze," is a helpful tool for anyone who may experience any hospital stay, not only for those with stroke.
Stroke is a comprehensive and easy-to-read book that explains many aspects of this health problem. Similes and metaphors are used to simplify complicated concepts; for example, blocked or leaking blood vessels are compared to a sink and the pipes leading toward or away from it. It also presents an accurate description of rehabilitation in the United States today. The glossary is helpful, but could be improved by including more of the medical terms used in the book. Some of the figures would be clearer if they were in color. A list of suggested reading offers an interesting collection of books and articles for those who wish to learn more. I would recommend this book to health care professionals and the general public alike.
J Bohn, PT, NCS, Alexian Rehabilitation Hospital, Elk Grove Village, Ill
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