[High-resolution computed tomography in malformations of the cochlear and vestibular organs]

Twenty-one patients with congenital deformities of the petrous bones were examined by high resolution computed tomography. This allows an accurate description of the extent of the malformation in all parts of the cochlear and vestibular organs; only localised changes in the auditory ossicles, such as fixation of the stapes and changes in the soft tissue portions of the labyrinth, cannot be shown. Improved demonstration of soft tissues while using less radiation makes high resolution CT preferable to conventional polytomography. It is also easier to perform and provides axial projections which are essential for the elucidation of malformations of the middle and inner ear.