The use of radiology in middle ear and temporal bone surgery

A nationwide survey was performed in Sweden regarding the way that practicing otosurgeons utilize radiological imaging before and after performing surgery of the middle ear and temporal bone. Sixty-six surgeons from 30 different otorhinolaryngology departments participated in the study. These represented all hospitals in Sweden where ear surgery is performed to some degree. A questionnaire was designed consisting of 18 questions that were assigned to 4 different groups. Questions in group 1 assessed the general conditions regarding imaging services in the local hospital. Questions in group 2 illuminated the level of tuition and competence development when it comes to judging radiological examinations. Group 3 questions mirrored the clinical routines when ordering various specific investigations. In group 4, the questions were aimed at describing which type of information the surgeons wanted to obtain from the imaging investigations. The answers gave a good picture of how Swedish otosurgeons use the services offered by their local radiological departments. One of the conclusions is that, although there is consensus regarding certain types of examinations in specific conditions, there is a great variation in how surgeons utilize radiological imaging in many of the most common clinical conditions. It is obvious that the routines regarding the use of radiology in conjunction with ear surgery vary from place to place and also between different surgeons. Whether a consensus can be reached in the future regarding this issue remains to be seen.