[The significance of sonography and computed tomography for the diagnosis of the intraperitoneal spread of tumors. Findings in 307 cases of peritoneal carcinosis].

Taking the results of 307 cases with peritoneal carcinomatosis, the diagnostic value of ultrasonography and computerized tomography in the detection of peritoneal spread of gynaecological and gastrointestinal tumors is discussed. Ascites is the most important, though nonspecific, symptom which can be detected with the greatest accuracy. Peritoneal nodular lesions as well as omental and/or mesenteric involvement can easily be missed by both methods. Thus, staging-laparotomy cannot be replaced in the management of gynecologic malignancies.