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Computed tomography evaluation of colorectal carcinoma
E S Scharling1, N T Wolfman, R E Bechtold
1Department of Radiology, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1088, USA.
Seminars in Roentgenology
|April 1, 1996
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) plays a vital role in assessing colorectal carcinoma extent and guiding treatment. While not for screening, CT aids in staging, treatment planning, and postoperative monitoring for colorectal cancer.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Accurate staging of colorectal carcinoma is crucial for effective patient management.
- Computed tomography (CT) is a key imaging modality in oncology.
- Noninvasive assessment aids in treatment planning for colorectal cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role of CT in assessing the extent of primary colorectal carcinoma.
- To determine CT's utility in treatment planning and postoperative surveillance.
- To compare CT with other imaging modalities for colorectal cancer evaluation.
Main Methods:
- Review of CT's application in colorectal carcinoma diagnosis and management.
- Comparison of CT findings with other imaging techniques (barium enema, ultrasonography, MRI, immunoscintigraphy).
- Description of CT protocols for postoperative assessment and follow-up.
Main Results:
- CT is limited in evaluating the primary tumor and local spread but useful for assessing extensive local or metastatic disease.
- CT is the preferred modality for postoperative imaging, clearly depicting the operative bed.
- CT-guided biopsies are recommended for suspected recurrent carcinoma.
Conclusions:
- CT is a valuable tool for staging colorectal carcinoma, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring patients postoperatively.
- CT complements clinical assessment and other imaging modalities.
- Regular CT follow-up is essential for detecting recurrence after surgery.