Preoperative Evaluation of Resectability of Esophageal Cancer by CT and MR Imaging

The introduction of CT scanning was generally considered as a breakthrough in the preoperative evaluation of resectability of esophageal cancer. Simple and reproducible criteria for advanced cancerous spread have been claimed, particularly: Obliteration of the space normally filled by a continuous layer of fat tissue between the esophagus and adjacent organs such as the aorta [1] An angle of the area of intimate contact between the tumor and the aorta exceeding 45 ° [2] Diameter of lymph nodes above 10 mm [3]