[Radiologic investigations following abdomino-perineal resection of the rectum (author's transl)]

Abstract

After abdominoperineal resection of the rectum specific alterations due to operation and disease can be distinguished. In over eighty percent the ureters and the urinary bladder are concerned. The topography of the small-intestine in the sacral cavity reveals alterations of the pelvic floor which generally are local recurrences of carcinoma. In both examinations special importance has to be laid on a lateral view of the pelvis. Indications and results of supplementary examinations are discussed. Computed tomography will deliver additional informations for the diagnosis of recurrent carcinoma; the value of CT is checked at the moment. Considering the amount and importance of treatable illness following resection of the rectum a standardized program for examination seems inevitable. Our experience with over 400 cases is, that this program can reveal important informations for postoperative care which up to now has often been underestimated, even from a radiologic point of view.