Textbook of Lymphology for Physicians and Lymphedema Therapists
Editors: | Foldi M, Foldi E, Kubik S. (eds) |
Publisher: | Munchen, Germany 80033, Urban & Fischer, 2003 (translation by Biotext, LLC, San Francisco, CA,) |
Information: | Hardcover, 689 pp, illus, ISBN: 0-9729535-0-7 |
Reviewers: | Jane Kepics MS, PT, CLT-LANA, Physical Therapist, Lymphedema Specialist, Phoenixville Hospital |
OncoLinkRating:
The new Textbook of Lymphology for Physicians and Lymphedema Therapists edited by Michael and Ethel Foldi and S. Kubik is a treasure trove of information for the practicing clinician. The book presents a complete review of the lymphatic system, the pathology that impacts this system and the most up to date clinical treatment for lymphatic disease conditions. This is the first English version of this text and is a translation based upon the 5 th German Edition.
The book is divided into two parts; the first sixteen chapters cover the Scientific section while the last four chapters include the Practical Section.
The Scientific section of the book, based on Rouviere’s work (1932), covers basic anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system in tremendous detail. Illustrations and pictures enhance the microscopic and macroscopic view of morphologic changes in the lymphatic system. Topics such as lymphatic anomalies, tumor states, lipedema, morbid obesity, and Stewart-Treves syndrome are included in chapter six. Chapters 8 through 16 examine the pathophysiology of specific lymphatic conditions. Radiological diagnostic procedures including CT, MRI, ultrasound, lymphography and lymphoscintigraphy are also discussed in this section.
The Practical section of the book was written by Dr RHK Strossenreuther of Germany with contributions by Guenther Klose, Steve Norton, and others. There is a review of manual lymph drainage according to Dr. Emil Vodder, including indications and contraindications, basic MLD treatment techniques and sequences. While this section is very well done, it should not be a substitute for a comprehensive MLD/CDT course, but should be utilized as a complement to training. Because of much clinical debate, Chapter 18 is of particular interest to therapists, as it includes physical therapy techniques and modalities, focusing on both their positive and negative effects on lymph drainage. In addition, the muscle and joint pump system that contributes to lymph transport and the basic principles for remedial exercises are reviewed. Finally, the mode of action and the selection of compression therapies are thoroughly covered.
This book is an excellent and well illustrated text that provides the trained therapist with a thorough foundation of lymphology. However, there is scant coverage of wounds and lymphedema of the head/neck, breast and abdomen. Overall, this is a superb compilation of the lymphatic system, its alterations and treatment.