Pneumatization of the articular eminence of the temporal bone: prevalence, development, and surgical treatment

Routine panoramic radiographs of 784 patients were evaluated retrospectively for the presence of pneumatization of the articular eminence of the temporal bone (PAT). The radiographs of eight patients showed signs of PAT. These eight patients ranged in age from 32 to 69 years, and four patients had bilateral involvement of the temporal bone. The use of tomography is recommended before surgical procedures involving the eminence to determine the extent of the pneumatization.