A comparison of computed tomography and ultrasound in the assessment of parotid masses.

Computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography were compared in the evaluation of parotid masses. The findings in 18 patients are presented. Both techniques proved equally effective at locating and predicting malignancy in lesions confined to the superficial lobe of the gland. Tumours in the deep lobe, medial to the ramus of the mandible and those extending beyond the confines of the gland were more reliably assessed by CT. It is recommended that CT is reserved for such problems, and that ultrasonography should be the initial investigation for the evaluation of parotid masses.