Curare, January 2007, ASTA Magazine of the MHH (Hanover): 26

Chest X-Ray Trainer (
(1st edition, 2006) DIDAMED Verlag GmbH
Price: 24.90 euros
ISBN 3-938103-00-0

The book *Chest-X-Rax-Trainer*, with its 224 pages and 750 illustrations, provides us students with an introduction to the practical interpretation and diagnosis of X-ray findings. Divided into 11 chapters, the book uses real-world examples to illustrate why an X-ray of an 80-year-old must look different from that of a schoolchild or an adult.

The book begins with a review of anatomy and, via a chapter titled “Interpretation of X-ray Images,” moves on to the individual anatomical structures that can be identified on chest X-rays. Future surgeons among us are not left out either: Chapter 9 covers foreign bodies, and Chapter 11 covers trauma. Last but not least, aspiring anesthesiologists and critical care physicians can learn a great deal about critical care thoracic medicine. Each chapter begins with the learning objectives and then provides a breakdown of the chapter, which is particularly helpful for reference. At the end of each chapter, there are short quiz questions with answers to assess mastery of the learning objectives! Next to almost every X-ray image, the reader will find a corresponding schematic drawing, so that even beginners can recognize what can be seen, how, and where.

Unconventional experiments—such as taking chest X-rays while standing on one’s head—are used to explain fundamental mechanisms. Practical phenomena, such as the “screaming lung” in pediatrics, are also demonstrated. The book is highly recommended all around, even if it takes a bit of time to read. Unfortunately, during clinical training, no emphasis is placed on this important practical knowledge, which is lacking during the clinical rotation and is a prerequisite for one’s first hospital shift—whether as an internist, surgeon, or anesthesiologist.

Janine Döpker