CT of esophageal neoplasms.

Considerable controversy surrounds the use of computed tomography (CT) in the staging of esophageal carcinoma. New evidence suggests that CT is extremely useful in the selection of patients who may benefit from surgery and/or adjuvant therapy. Additionally, CT can also plan the most efficacious surgical approach. The principles and problems of staging esophageal carcinoma are discussed and useful criteria are presented.