Computed Tomography in Carcinoma of the Larynx

CT scanning in the investigation of carcinoma of the larynx is compared with direct laryngoscopy and laryngectomy specimens. Scans of twenty-two patients studied on a GE 8800 scanner over a two-year period are retrospectively reviewed. CT scanning compares closely with direct laryngoscopy in ability to define the longitudinal extent of tumours and is superior in evaluating the soft tissues deep to the mucosal surface and in identifying cervical lymphadeno-pathy. Our findings agree with previous reports and we conclude that CT scanning is an imaging modality complementary to direct laryngoscopy and uniquely useful in characterizing the extent of carcinoma of the larynx in areas vital to planning of appropriate therapy.