Role of computed tomography in preoperative evaluation of esophageal carcinoma.

The utility of computed tomography in pretherapy assessment of esophageal carcinoma is reviewed. Computed tomographic findings in 78 patients with histologically proved esophageal carcinoma were corelated with findings at surgery and histopathology. Computed tomography (CT) was found to be fairly accurate in assessing tumor extent, invasion of adjacent mediastinal structures and distant metastases but was of no help in detecting periesophageal lymph node involvement. The tracheobronchial tree invasion was detected with an overall accuracy of 96% whereas the same for invasion of aorta, percardium and gastroesophageal junction was 86%, 88% and 78% respectively. The sensitivity for the detection of periesophageal and perigastric lymphadenopathy was low (9% and 0% respectively) but was acceptably high in celiac lymphadenopathy (70%). CT is an excellent non invasive modality in pretherapy assessment of esophageal carcinoma and can guide the surgeon in determining the appropriate therapy.

Computed tomography of the paranasal sinus and nasal cavity tumours.

One hundred and thirty seven patients with suspected neoplasms of paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity were studied with conventional radiography and C.T. Scan. Significantly greater tumour extent was detected on C.T. due to 3 - Dimensional demonstration of tumours. C.T.Scan was extremely helpful in diagnosing the primary site of tumour and tumour recurrence in treated cases. This information had pronounced effect on patient management and prognosis determination. C.T. was also helpful in differentiating certain benign conditions such as fibro-osseous lesions and inflammation without bony erosion from malignant tumours. The importance of C.T. scan in these neoplasms is discussed here.

Retropharyngeal lipoma.

Lipomata in retropharyngeal region are extremely rare. Accurate preoperative diagnosis is very important to assess invasion of muscles and to prevent local recurrence. A case of retropharyngeal lipoma is being discussed along with review of its clinical, radiological and surgical aspects. The role of CT scan in its definitive diagnosis is also discussed.