The use of ultrasound and computed tomography scanning in the management of gynecologic cancer patients

The contribution of abdominal-pelvic computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound scanning to the management of gynecologic malignancy patients was assessed retrospectively in 62 scans that were performed immediately preceding laparotomy. A total of 55.5% CT and 71.4% ultrasound scans were found to be helpful. Diagnostic problem areas included the detection of lymph node metastases, peritoneal implants, omental metastases, and parametrial extension. An additional 75 scans performed in patients not undergoing laparotomy were received to assess any alteration in management resulting from the scans. It is concluded that clinicians should be more discriminating in their requests for scanning procedures and that appropriate communication between the clinician and the radiologist may avoid unproductive scans.