VOLUME

   The attentive reader will have noticed in previous editions that a key feature of this Journal is to provide not only a vast array of cases that are interesting in themselves, but also to combine new experience with the body of knowledge built up over time. Thus, in this edition, we have a very specific case involving a rare side effect of a statin, along with a follow-up article on 5 years’ experience of the success of stroke fast track at the Bangkok Hospital Medical Centre. This emphasis on range also applies to the use of equipment in hospital treatment, with an article on stress echocardiography, the LightCycler^® test for MSRA detection and the ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenator) for life support.

   This range also involves the perspective we have on our patients. The Bangkok Medical Journal is not just about doctors and equipment, we believe that people should be at the forefront of our concerns. Hence the human interest in articles on Aeromedical Transport Missions and the survival of an old lady with ALCAPA along with the work on cases of viral pneumonia.

   The editorial board has another concern also: to give space both to those authors who are reporting on the practical side of their work, such as the article on clinical and radiographic outcomes of anterior lumbar interbody fusion, and also to authors who have spent time researching a specific area of interest, such as Hirayama’s disease, and wish to share their knowledge. In this context, emphasis is also given to the unexpected, such as the article on the successful combination of adult and pediatric fiber optic bronchoscopy.

   We would like to highlight the contribution of guest author Ann Weinacker, MD and her update on the management of polytrauma patients. Her overview provides invaluable information to provide the very best care for polytrauma patients, including those injured in motor accidents. These patients account for a significant number of admissions to emergency care.

   Perhaps a key expression for an understanding of our approach is “something for everybody”. Certainly, anyone looking at this edition and browsing previous ones will find that we have covered an impressive range of issues.

   We intend to continue in this vein and hope you, the attentive reader, will continue with us.

Chirotchana Suchato, MD

Editor in Chief

Rergchai Varatorn, MD

Co-Editor