Multidetector computed tomography multiplanar and three-dimensional data processing in the evaluation of the extension of cardioesophageal cancer

Background. The anatomical features of cardioesophageal junction impede the examination of this region with the help of traditional roentgenologic methods including computed tomography. Objective. The aim of the study was the creation of optimal program for three-dimensional reconstruction of cardioesophageal cancer on the basis of multidetector computed tomography. Material and method. From January 2005 to March 2011 multidetector computed tomography was performed to 73 patients with cardioesophageal cancer and standard programs for three-dimensional modeling of pathologic process were studied. Results. Inadequacy of oral administration of water-soluble contrast medium is noted concerning the analysis of multidetector computed tomography results. The best results are received in studies with intravenous injection of contrast medium and administration of water or air in esophagus and stomach. Original method of cardioesophageal cancer modeling on the basis of multidetector computed tomography is proposed. As the result of our method (68 patients) not in one case of morphologically proven diagnosis of cardioesophageal cancer the extent of pathologic process was not underestimated.