The role of ultrasound in the assessment and treatment of abdominal metastases from testicular tumours.

The para-aortic region has been investigated with ultrasound in 95 patients with testicular teratoma seen in the testicular tumour unit between 1973 and 1976. The liver was assessed in 110 patients. The technique has provided useful and reliable information. Para-aortic ultrasound can provide more information than existing diagnostic methods and is particularly useful for defining the volume of metastatic nodal masses. Its role should be regarded as complementary to that of lymphography. Ultrasonography is particularly useful to the radiotherapist since it can define the volume and limits of the tumour and thus influence choice of therapeutic approach and radiation planning technique. Ultrasound is also valuable in the assessment of response to treatment and in monitoring the patient during the subsequent follow-up period.