[The role of lymphography in the choice and planning of treatment in patients with malignant tumors of the lesser pelvis].

Lymphographic studies were carried out in 1070 patients to identify patterns of lymphogenic dissemination of cancer of the cervix and corpus uteri, prostate, urinary, bladder and rectum. A direct correlation between the frequency and degree of metastatic spread and local extension of tumor process was established. The most frequent sites for metastasis were the external and common iliac lymph nodes. Whatever the site of primary tumor or the predominant direction of its growth, these lymph nodes on both sides of the pelvis and lumbar area were involved. The significance of lymphographic results for selecting and planning treatment modalities as well as indications for lymphography were identified.