18-FDG PET Imagery and MRI Comparison in Cervical Cancer Lymph Node Metastasis Detection

Cervical cancer treatment depends on factors like tumor size and lymph node involvement. Early-stage cervical cancers without lymph node involvement are typically treated with surgery, radiotherapy, or both. However, advanced stages often require radio-chemotherapy, either alone or before surgery. Current pre-treatment examinations include a clinical examination and a pelvic MRI to assess lymph nodes and tumor spread. This study aims to explore the potential benefits of using an 18-FDG PET scan alongside the MRI for better lymph node detection in cervical cancer patients, potentially improving treatment planning and outcomes. The study is a multicenter, multidisciplinary effort involving 380 patients over 3 years. Participants will undergo both an 18-FDG PET scan and an MRI before starting any treatment. The results of these scans will be compared to determine which method is more accurate in detecting pelvic and para-aortic lymph node metastasis. The findings will also be correlated with histology results from lymph node dissection. This comparison will help estimate the effectiveness of the 18-FDG PET scan in diagnosing cervical cancer spread.