Abstract
Diseases of the External Ear (Including Step-by-Step Otoplasty) thoroughly reviews external ear pathology with special emphasis on surgical otoplasty. The author, Dr S. K. Kaluskar brings 4 decades of otolaryngology experience. He organized the work into 7 chapters: “Evolution of the External Ear”; “Embryology, Anatomy and Physiology”; “Congenital Anomalies of the Pinna”; “Traumatic Conditions Affecting External Ear”; “Inflammatory Conditions Affecting External Ear”; “Neoplastic Lesions of the Pinna”; and “Miscellaneous Conditions of the Pinna.” Several of the chapters are further divided into pertinent sections.
Although this text offers a concise textual review of external ear pathologies, its greatest strength lies in its numerous quality images. Nearly every chapter contains magnificent photos, which significantly improve the reader’s understanding of the various pathologies. The images associated with the step-by-step descriptions of pinnaplasty and preauricular sinus excision are particularly impressive and thorough enough to comfortably guide the young surgeon through these procedures. There are multiple grammatical errors throughout the text that distract the reader but do not significantly detract from the overall quality of the work. This text will appeal most to young surgeons seeking to expand their expertise. It will also serve as a useful reference for practicing otolaryngologists treating diseases of the external ear.
