Ultrasonic diagnosis of the retroperitoneal space.

A precondition for ultrasonic diagnosis of the retroperitoneum is an optimal preparation of the patient to eliminate flatulence in the intestines. If the large vessels of the retroperitoneum are well demarcated, the optimal examination conditions are present. Tumorous and cystic changes of 2 cm or more, can be visualized. Difficulties, however, in the coordination and the differentiation of retroperitoneal tumors from organic tumors (pancreatic tail, splenic and gynecological tumors) can arise. Tumor changes in the lymphatic nodes, the adrenal gland and the sympathetic trunk, tumors in the retroperitoneum from other causes, and aortic aneurysms are discussed.