Real-time B-scan ultrasound in middle ear assessment. A preliminary report

Middle ear visualization is difficult otoscopically due to the usual opacity of the eardrum. Though various procedures have been developed, difficulties exist in determining effusion and other middle ear anomalies. Past studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of A-scan ultrasound for such purposes. The present study reports initial results of real-time B-scan sonography on patients with normal and effusion-filled middle ears. Consistent landmarks are seen in the normals. Fluid appears in the abnormals as a band or elliptical area of nonreflectance medial to the eardrum. Though further study is necessary to determine reliability, initial results are promising for this application.