The value of various methods for determining lymphatic metastases in prostatic carcinoma.

A series of 102 prostatic carcinoma patients was subjected to en bloc pelvic lymphadenectomy. The lymph nodes were collected in groups and examined with the help of the serial section method. An exact N determination is possible by means of the size and location of the lymph node metastases. Compared with this method, the following procedures were critically evaluated: pedal lymphography, excretory urography, clinical examination, explorative lymphadenectomy and pelvic vasography. The results of computer tomography, lymph node biopsy, prostatic lymphography and lymphoscintigraphy are indirectly evaluated. The invasiveness of en bloc lymphadenectomy is discussed.