Prolegomenon of diagnostic endoscopic ultrasound – from scene dock to stagecraft

This concise monography (79 pages) on ultrasound and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a remarkably refreshing booklet written by our respected Belgian colleague doctor Vincent De Wilde (1). Yes indeed, the title and subtitle are intriguing. It takes at least two attempts to read and understand it, referring to the eloquence and performing arts of the Ancient Greeks. A prolegomenon is an introductory essay, and that is indeed the most accurate description of this book. The author succeeded to assemble specific topics on (endoscopic) ultrasound, which could be characterized under “everything you always wanted to know, but never dared to ask” or simply “frequently asked questions”. In brief, the book reads more like a practical instruction manual rather than the usual fist-thick exhaustive reference books trying to cover all aspects on the subject.