Related Experiment Videos
Sacral distribution of prostatic lymph nodes visualized on spiral computed tomography with three-dimensional
C Brössner1, H Ringhofer, G Schatzl
1Department of Urology, Oberwart Hospital, Oberwart, Austria. broessner@utanet.at
BJU International
|February 19, 2002
Summary
Prostate cancer may spread through sacral lymph nodes. This study used advanced imaging to show that the prostate drains into these sacral lymphatics, a pathway previously less understood.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Radiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Prostatic lymphatic drainage is crucial for understanding prostate cancer metastasis.
- The role of sacral lymph nodes in this drainage pathway requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the involvement of sacral lymph nodes in prostatic lymphatic drainage.
- To utilize contemporary radiological imaging techniques for this evaluation.
Main Methods:
- Six patients with suspected prostate cancer underwent contrast medium injection into the prostate.
- Transrectal ultrasonography, fluoroscopy, and spiral computed tomography with 3D reconstruction were employed.
- Pelvic CT scans were performed before and at 20 minutes and 24 hours after contrast injection.
Main Results:
- All patients demonstrated prostatic lymphatic drainage via the sacral region.
- Sacral lymph nodes were fewer and narrower than iliac nodes.
- Prostatic sacral lymph nodes were identified at S2-S5 (predominantly S3-4), located presacrally and in the sacral foramen.
Conclusions:
- The findings indicate that sacral lymphatics represent a potential route for prostate cancer cell spread.
- This highlights the significance of sacral lymph nodes in the metastatic pathway of prostate cancer.