Ultrasound and CT evaluation of pedunculated gastrointestinal lipomas

Conventional barium examinations and endoscopy can often suggest the presence of submucosal lipomas, but such lipomas are occasionally difficult to differentiate from other submucosal tumors and carcinomas by radiographic examination. Endoscopical biopsies are often inconclusive. A definitive preoperative diagnosis may spare the patient unnecessary or too extensive surgery. The ultrasonic demonstration of a hyperechoic tumor surrounded by normal intestinal walls is highly suggestive of a pedunculated lipoma. CT may confirm the correct diagnosis. Ultrasonic and CT findings in two cases of pedunculated gastrointestinal lipomas are presented.