Dr. John Henderson (JWH) is 93 years old, very much alive, very much alert although only recently starting to slow down. This author (JAG) has had the distinct privilege of working closely with JWH for the past 20 years. This fourth edition of Orbital Tumors collates the Mayo Clinic experience in dealing with pathologically verified tumefactions or angiographically proven arteriovenous communications involving the orbit over a 50-year period. While preparing this edition, there were ongoing discussions with JWH concerning various orbital problems, which always incorporated the historical perspective and have been incorporated into the text as appropriate. While diagnostic tools are more robust in the JAG era, this author has been reeducated in the art and craft of a detailed history and a careful examination, a skill set seemingly displaced by the ready availability of neuroimaging. As JWH often mentions, ÑÐЬthe patient is telling you the answer to their problem, we just have to hear the answer.ÑÐÐ This from a clinician who did not have access to the modern neuroimaging we take for granted. We have attempted to resolve this dilemma, as appropriate.
In many instances, a final answer does involve surgery, many aspects of which are surprisingly unchanged over the 50-year period. The fourth edition details some new approaches not described in the earlier editions. We also give patient profiles, treatment recommendations, and an ultimate prognosis for the busy clinician with orbital questions. Our intended target audience includes ophthalmologists, neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons, otorhinolaryngologists, along with interested neurologists and internists. This edition also represents the last effort for JWH. I, for one, will be forever grateful for JWH's wisdom, insight, and advice.
This is also a perfect opportunity to acknowledge the tireless efforts of many whose contributions are vitally important but perhaps not as visible as others. From the Mayo Foundation staff: Marlene Messenger, James Wentz, LeAnn Stee, Roberta Schwartz, Susan Miller, and Jane Wiggs. From the Lippincott staff: Joanthan Pine, Jean McGough, Fran Gunning, and from Laserwords Ann Mary Francis. This book would not have been possible without their help.
