Morphometric analysis of the internal auditory canal by developmental change using three-dimensional computed...

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Anatomy
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The internal auditory canal (IAC) is crucial for hearing and balance.
• Detailed understanding of IAC morphology is vital for neurotological and skull base surgeries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze developmental changes in the 3D morphology of the internal auditory canal (IAC).
• To provide a comprehensive understanding of IAC growth patterns in children and adults.
• To enhance surgical approaches by clarifying IAC anatomical variations.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 120 temporal bone CT scans from 60 patients (birth to adulthood).
• 3D reconstruction of the IAC volume using Vworks software.
• Measurement of IAC parameters across different age groups using axial, coronal, and sagittal CT views.

Main Results:

• IAC volume showed a significant increase with age (P=0.01).
• IAC volume demonstrated a strong correlation with all measured anatomical parameters (P=0.001).
• Spearman's rho values indicated significant correlations between IAC volume and parameters like Wp, Wv, Wm, Dp, Dm, and Lpf.

Conclusions:

• IAC volume development extends through adolescence.
• Knowledge of normal IAC growth patterns and 3D morphology is essential for optimizing surgical interventions.
• This study provides valuable anatomical data for neurosurgeons and otolaryngologists.