Computed tomography (CT) in head and neck tumors: technique and indications

Computed tomography remains the first-line imaging procedure for pre-therapeutic staging and posttherapeutic follow-up of patients with head and neck tumors. We emphasize the technical constraints for a useful CT examination of this area: a fast, high-resolution, high-contrast scanner is mandatory; the examination must be complete and correctly documented; since most patients will have control studies, it is highly recommended to store the images permanently on magnetic or optic supports. We propose our criteria, valid in 1993, for selecting patients that are candidates for a MRI examination as a second-line technique: mainly patients with a suspected extension to the skull base or the cranial nerves, and initial investigation of laryngeal cancer. There is no doubt that these indications will evolve with time.