Giuseppe Di Falco – författare

Endoanal and endorectal ultrasound represents considerable progress in the field of anorectal imaging. Its importance in the staging of rectal and anal cancer, in identifying perianasto- motic neoplastic recurrences, in defining acute and chronic suppurative disease and in assessing sphincteral anatomical integrity, is now a confirmed reality. The evidence provided by endoanal and endorectal ultrasonography guides the colorectal surgeon in his choice among the various therapeutic approaches and helps in assessing the effects of the treatments applied. The great flexibility and high degree of reliability make this exploratory method an indispensable tool at all stages of the clinical course in the majority of patients with anorectal problems, including the fundamental follow-up stage. The publication of this excellent volume on intraanal and intrarectal ultrasonog- raphy is therefore to be appreciated, especially since it is in the form of an atlas. As we are dealing with imaging, it is particularly appropriate that it is the images that tell the story. Like all important things, this volume does not come out of nothing. It is the result of many years of skilled work by Drs. G.A.Santoro and G. Di Falco and is based on the experience of internationally renowned professional experts. The ten sections of the atlas begin with general information on ultrasonography, gradually progressing to the technical problems of the method and the aspects rela- tive to anorectal tumors.This last section leads to a review of traditional and mod- ern therapeutic possibilities.

New three-dimensional endoanal and endorectal ultrasonographic and magnetic resonance imaging techniques have given better insight into the complex anatomy of the pelvic floor and its pathologic modification in benign anorectal diseases. Obstetrical events leading to fecal incontinence in females, the relationship between fistulous tracks and the sphincter complex, and mechanisms of obstructed defecation syndrome can now be accurately evaluated, which is of fundamental importance for decision making. Thanks to improvements in the diagnosis of these disorders, new forms of treatment have been developed with better outcome for patients.This book is aimed at general and colorectal surgeons, radiologists, gastroenterologists and gynecologists with a special interest in this field. It is also relevant to everyone who wants to improve their understanding of the fundamental principles of pelvic floor disorders.