Virtual Endoscopy CT and Three-Dimensional Reconstruction CT: New Possibilities in Middle Ear Diagnostics

Progress in the surgery of the middle ear requires increasingly more precise visual diagnostics. Similarly important to the operator is the possibility to achieve radiological images similar to those seen during the operation. Visual data acquired during CT examination was analysed using three-dimensional reconstruction (3D) and virtual endoscopy (VE) software. We selected on 64 CT examinations. Twelve patients had no pathological changes, in four, the middle ear was assessed before insertion of an implant, and in 11 before planned surgical procedures, a further 27 patients had radical surgery. CT of the middle ear with 3D and VE options provides the operator with information on the spatial association between the VIIth nerve, inner ear and auditory ossicles. It also allows for presentation of the middle ear structures in a manner similar to a natural anatomical view. VECT and 3D CT are valuable complementary diagnostic procedures making use of CT technique, ensuring a more efficient tool for diagnostics of middle ear before and after surgical procedures.