[Value of computerized tomography for the staging of bronchial cancer]

We obtained important informations in respect of tumor extent according to the TNM-classification by computed tomography in 99 patients with bronchogenic carcinomas. This method shows high accuracy in assessment of tumor extent and of mediastinal lymphatic metastases. The detection of metastases in the upper abdomen is possible too. In spite of some limitations computed tomography is definitely superior to all roentgenological methods in assessing the stage of bronchogenic carcinoma. It is of value in exploration of local operability and in planning radiation therapy.