A combination of computed tomography scan and ultrasound provides optimal detection of cervical lymph node metastasis in papillary thyroid carcinomas: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

We report an up-to-date analysis elucidating the diagnostic accuracy of LNM detection by either CT, US, or in combination. Our work suggests dual CT + US to be the best for overall detection of LNM and CT to be preferable in detecting central LNM. The use of either CT or US alone may detect lateral LNM with acceptable accuracy, yet dual imaging (CT + US) significantly improved detection rates.