Description

Preface

Radiological techniques continue to evolve as the result of a
combination of many factors; particularly the on-going advances
in imaging hardware and software technology, and the continued
refinement of the physicochemical properties of intravenous
contrast media. Successive editions of this Guide have reflected
this constant progress and the consequent continual evolution of
our diagnostic and therapeutic armamentarium which is a central
feature of our specialty. Even in the five years since the previous
edition of this Guide, many routine day-to-day examinations have
changed led, in particular, by advances in CT scanner technology.
The barium enema, the IVP, V/Q isotope scanning and many
invasive catheter angiographic examinations have now largely
been replaced by their CT-based equivalents. Similar changes are
seen reflecting advances in MR and ultrasound technology and
radiologists continue to take on an ever-increasing role in
therapeutic interventions previously the domain of the surgeon.
We set out to reflect these changes but retain the compact
nature and accessible format and, therefore, the usefulness, of the
Guide. All chapters have been thoroughly reviewed and, where
appropriate, revised and rewritten to reflect current radiological
practice, and a new chapter on patient consent has been added.
As always, it is a difficult balance to ensure that current
radiological practice is faithfully reflected but not to dismiss older
techniques which may still be used in some centres or may
continue to be required where there are contraindications to
current preferred techniques such as MR imaging.
It has been a great privilege to be involved with this Guide; the
2nd edition of which rarely left my side as a junior radiologist. I
hope the book continues to be a valued resource for the current
generation of radiology trainees.

Nick Watson
2013