[Diagnostic imaging in otorhinolaryngology--assessment of current status]

The first conventional x-rays of the paranasal sinuses were received in 1897, just two years after the detection of x-rays. During the following decades several modifications and extensions of conventional radiologic techniques were developed, but routine imaging procedures of the head and neck were mainly restricted to pictures of the paranasal sinuses and the temporal bone. In the fifties, tomography was developed, which gave us a more detailed insight of the anatomy and pathology of the paranasal sinuses and temporal bone. During the last two decades the development of new techniques, i.e. computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), has significantly increased the importance of modern imaging for the diagnostic evaluation of head and neck diseases. These diagnostic tools enable us to visualize anatomical structures and pathological entities with an accuracy never been expected beforehand. The pace of the improvement of these diagnostic tools, however, requires that both radiologist and otorhinolaryngologist keep up with the adequate indications of CT and MRI in the different areas of the head and neck. A close relationship and cooperation between radiologist and ENT surgeon is therefore indispensible for a fruitful and cost-effective use of modern imaging. Otherwise the patient is exposed to modern medical technology without an equivalent benefit. The purpose of the present paper is mainly to give an update and state of the art of modern imaging techniques in otorhinolaryngology, head and neck surgery. Different areas i.e. paranasal sinuses, temporal bone, salivary glands, oral cavity and oropharynx as well as the neck are discussed in terms of adequate indications for modern imaging in the diagnostic evaluation of different lesions.