Diagnostic performance of positron emission tomography-computed tomography in the follow-up of patients with upper gastro-intestinal tract cancers

Background Imaging of the upper gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) operative bed and anastomotic sites is challenging. Combined positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET/CT) is a useful addition in the management of oncologic GIT postoperative patients with added value in staging, assessment of treatment response, and can alter the management plan according to the situation. Results Thirty-three patients were included in this study, 27 males (81.8%) and six females (18.18%). Eighteen patients (54.5%) presented with positive findings of tumor recurrence or metastatic lesions, and 15 patients (45.45%) presented with unremarkable operative bed findings. PET/CT results were confirmed by histopathological assessment when accessible and serial follow-up. Conclusions Upper GIT anastomotic sites and operative beds are challenging imaging problems. FDG uptake is aiding in the confirmation of residual/recurrent neoplastic processes. PET/CT is a highly effective modality in postoperative surveillance detection of recurrent neoplastic lesions.