Non-optic endosonography in advanced carcinoma of the esophagus.

The assessment of advanced esophageal cancer with a 5-MHz steerable non-optic ultrasound probe is described. Non-optic endosonography was performed on 80 occasions in 50 patients; the probe could be passed successfully on 75 occasions. In all cases, good visualization of the extent of esophageal tumor was obtained and discrimination between the tumor mass and discrete peri-esophageal lymph nodes was possible. The technique was valuable in monitoring tumor response to laser therapy and radiotherapy, and in guiding the laser endoscopist away from areas of minimal thickening.