In contrast to other extrahepatic malignancies many colorectal cancers can be cured even when there is metastatic spread to the liver. The diagnosis of liver metastases relies totally on imaging to decide which patients may be surgical candidates. The diagnostic value of ultrasound with contrast agents, multidetector CT and MR imaging with non-specific gadolinium chelates and liver-specific contrast agent is discussed. Nowadays MDCT is the mainstay of staging and follow-up of these patients, because it provides good coverage of the liver and the complete abdomen and the chest in one session. MR imaging has been shown to be superior to helical CT in the preoperative assessment of colorectal liver metastases. Large studies are needed to define the role of MDCT vs. MRI staging in patients referred for resection of liver metastases.

Author

Wolfgang Schima, , Christiane Kulinna, Herbert Langenberger and A Ba-Ssalamah

Contact Details

Corresponding address:
Dr Wolfgang Schima,
Department of Radiology,
University of Vienna,
Waehringer Guertel 18--20,
A-1090 Vienna, Austria.

Reference

ICIS Cancer Imaging Volume 5
DOI: 10.1102/1470-7330.2005.0035

Date Posted

24 November 2005

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