[Transrectal and transvaginal echography in cancer of the rectum].

To assess the diagnostic value of ultrasonography in rectal carcinoma, the procedure was performed in 48 such cases. Stage was reliably established in the majority (95.8%) of patients. False--negative conclusion on the muscular layer integrity was made in one case and inflammatory infiltrate was misdiagnosed as cancer in another. Pararectal lymph nodes were visualized in 62% of patients whereas regional ones--in 5 (10.4%); their metastatic origin was confirmed with fine--needle aspiration biopsy and lymphography. Ultrasonic scintigraphy identified nodular lesions in the liver parenchyma in 10 cases; the malignant nature of those foci was verified in 90% by histo- and cytologic examination of samples obtained by fine--needle aspiration biopsy.