The preoperative temporal bone CT: a mnemonic for reducing surgical risk

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Anatomy

Background:

• Otologic surgery is effective but carries risks due to critical structures in the ear and skull base.
• Preoperative computed tomography (CT) aids in identifying anatomical variants influencing surgical technique and complications.
• Current temporal bone CT analysis lacks detail, consistency, and comprehensiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate key landmarks and anatomical variants on preoperative temporal bone CT scans.
• To highlight features critical for otologic surgery and potential surgical risk.
• To provide an educational framework for systematic CT review in otologic surgery.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of temporal bone CT imaging.
• Focus on anatomical landmarks and variants relevant to otologic surgery.
• Utilized the mnemonic "Making Miracles Involves Focused Vision" (MMIFV) for systematic review.

Main Results:

• Identified critical landmarks and anatomical variants on temporal bone CT.
• Emphasized features impacting surgical planning and risk assessment.
• The MMIFV mnemonic covers mastoid, middle ear, inner ear, facial nerve, and vascular anatomy.

Conclusions:

• Systematic review of preoperative temporal bone CT is essential for safe and effective otologic surgery.
• Recognizing anatomical variants can significantly reduce surgical complications.
• The MMIFV mnemonic offers a structured approach to interpreting temporal bone CT for surgeons and radiologists.