Prone view ultrasonography for pancreatic tail neoplasms.

Ultrasonography was performed in the prone and supine positions in six patients with neoplasms in the tail of the pancreas. The masses were either not apparent (three cases) or less well visualized on the supine scans. The value and indications of the prone position in the ultrasonic evaluation of masses in this portion of the pancreas are documented. Prone scanning is particularly useful when malignant ascites interferes with pancreatic visualization in the supine position.