Principles and Practice of Mechanical Ventilation, edited by Martin J. Tobin, MD, is an outstanding text, unique and surprisingly up to date. Even with 76 contributing authors, the text maintains cohesion and reads well. It should be examined by pulmonologists, intensivists, anesthesiologists, and respiratory care practitioners, although anyone interested in the subject of mechanical ventilation should find it informative and helpful.
I especially liked the sections dealing with the historical basis of mechanical ventilation, the work of breathing, and ethical problems associated with mechanical ventilation. The book is very comprehensive. Virtually all aspects are covered, along with provocative thoughts on possible future modes, such as closed-loop mechanical ventilation. The "inner workings" of ventilators are discussed. The performances of those currently available are compared for various modes of ventilatory support. Tables and figures are thoughtful and descriptive. The text is indexed well.
In conclusion, Principles and Practice of Mechanical Ventilation is