CT findings in primary osteosarcoma of the jaw

Findings of computed tomography (CT) in five patients with osteosarcoma of the jaw are presented. CT played an important role in the assessment of the tumour extent before the planning of treatment for both primary and recurrent jaw osteosarcoma. Plain CT was capable of demonstrating subtle bony change (cortical reaction and calcification) and medullary tumour extension without interference from other superimposed bones. Tumour vasculature was well represented by thin-slice CT scan with intravenous bolus injection of contrast medium. We emphasize the importance of preoperative CT scanning from both a radiological and surgical point of view when confronted with a tumour of the maxilla or mandible.