Volumetric analysis of the tympanic isthmus in human temporal bones

A volumetric study on the tympanic isthmus and its relationship to temporal bone pneumatization was conducted in 110 serially sectioned temporal bones with and without middle ear pathology. With a microcomputer and digitizing tablet, the area of the tympanic isthmus and the degree of pneumatization in sample sections were calculated. Nonpathologic temporal bones showed a significant correlation between the volume of the tympanic isthmus and the degree of pneumatization. The narrowest area of the tympanic isthmus and the degree of pneumatization were also highly correlated. The result indicated a definite inhibition of pneumatization due to chronic middle ear infection when compared with nonpathologic temporal bones.