X-ray
In this non-invasive imaging examination, the abdomen is X-rayed after the patient has swallowed an X-ray contrast medium. The contrast medium attaches itself to the intestinal walls so that an evaluation is possible. During this examination, for example, the degree of intestinal constriction (stenosis) caused by intestinal cancer can be assessed, especially if colonoscopy is not feasible. However, in comparison to colonoscopy, the assessment of changes in the mucous membrane is limited. For this purpose, the direct assessment of the intestinal mucosa by means of endoscopy with tissue removal (biopsy) is essential.
How is the tumor stage determined?
Once the diagnosis of colon cancer is confirmed, the tumor stage is determined and the further therapeutic procedure is planned. Various methods are used to assess the tumour The TNM system is used for the most common classification. This topic might also be of interest to you:
- The spread of the tumour (T)
- The lymph node infestation (N)
- And possible remote metastases (M).
- TNM system
- The course of colon cancer
In an endosonography, a flexible tube is first advanced up to the tumour, as in colonoscopy. However, in this examination, an ultrasound probe is attached to the end of the tube instead of the camera. With this method, by placing the ultrasound probe on the tumour, its spread into the depths (infiltration) of the intestinal wall can be made visible and lymph nodes located near the intestine can also be assessed.
With sonography (ultrasound), abdominal organs can be assessed non-invasively and without radiation exposure. Sonography of the abdominal cavity (abdomen) can, for example, reveal metastases in the liver or affected lymph nodes in the abdominal cavity (abdomen). Since the method is easy to use and is not stressful for the patient, it can be repeated often and is particularly useful for follow-up and aftercare.
Spiral computed tomography (spiral CT) can provide information about the extent of the tumour, the spatial relationship to neighbouring organs, lymph node involvement and, in addition, about distant metastases. Computer tomography of both the thorax and abdomen is required to assess all possible ways in which the tumour can spread (especially to the liver and lungs). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRT) provides similar results. A chest x-ray (chest x-ray) can provide information about the presence of metastases in the lungs.
