[Value of computerized tomography in advanced stomach carcinoma. Can diagnostic laparotomy be avoided?]

The value of preoperative computed tomography (CT) was analyzed in 40 patients with gastric carcinoma. Local tumor infiltration was correctly interpreted on CT in 90% of cases and involvement of lymph nodes in 72%. Distant metastases (liver, peritoneum) were recognized in 2 out of 9 patients. As the value of this method in assessment of resectability is limited, routine CT is not indicated in patients with gastric carcinoma.