[Significance of computerized tomography and sonography in the staging (TNM classification) of cancers of the tongue and floor of the mouth].

Computerized tomography and sonography were used for pretherapeutic staging of 40 patients with cancer of the tongue. The size of the tumors and invasion of cervical lymph nodes were assessed, and both methods were compared in relation to the stage of the tumor. Clinical findings were amended by diagnostic imaging in 25% of the cases. There was a distinct preponderance of advanced stages. Ultrasonography proved superior to CT for T1 and T2 tumors. Full assessment of T4 tumors was feasible by CT only. We were able to develop a selective protocol for the use of CT and ultrasound scan based on the TNM classification.