CT demonstration of peritoneal implants

Abstract

The CT findings in eight proven cases of peritoneal implants are presented. The most common CT appearance is a nodular soft-tissue density of 1.5--3.5 cm along the lateral aspect of the liver and often adjacent to an area of ascites. This was found in four patients. Other sites of implantation included the anterior and lateral peritoneal surface of the mid and lower abdomen. Single implants were identified in five patients and multiple implants in three. The detection of peritoneal implants is of considerable clinical value, and in three patients the implants were the only evidence of metastatic seeding other than ascites. The relation of implants to intraperitoneal fluid dynamics and problematic areas of scanning technique are discussed.