CT evaluation of malformed external and middle ear and its surgical correlation

This study evaluated the diagnostic value of high resolution CT (HRCT) for atresia of the external auditory meatus (EAM) and isolated middle ear malformation. CT scan of the temporal bone was done in 33 patients with such disorders and 5 patients with otosclerosis etc. were studied in the same way for comparison. Coronal HRCT clearly showed conditions of the atresia plate and malformation of the malleus, incus, abnormal course of facial canal and changes in the vestibular window. The axial HRCT is useful to demonstrate the articulations in between the malleus, incus, stapes and the cochlear window. All the HRCT findings were confirmed during operation. Axial and coronal HRCT for external and middle ear deformation is highly valuable for decision making and surgical planning.