Virtual endoscopy imaging of the middle ear cavity and ossicles

• Published in: European archives of oto-rhino-laryngology Vol. 259; no. 2; pp. 77 - 83
• Main Authors: KARHUKETO, T. S, DASTIDAR, P. S, RYYMIN, P. S, LAASONEN, E. M, PUHAKKA, H. J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Berlin Springer 01.02.2002
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Biological and medical sciences; Cadaver; Ear Ossicles - diagnostic imaging; Ear, Middle - diagnostic imaging; Endoscopy - methods; Eustachian Tube - diagnostic imaging; Female; Humans; Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects); Male; Medical sciences; Middle Aged; Otorhinolaryngology. Stomatology. Orbit; Radiodiagnosis. Nmr imagery. Nmr spectrometry; Radiographic Image Enhancement; Software; Tomography, X-Ray Computed - methods; User-Computer Interface; Human; Exploration; Endoscopy; Middle ear; Ear ossicles; Virtual endoscopy
• ISSN: 0937-4477; 1434-4726
• DOI: 10.1007/s004050100410

Ten cadaver temporal bone blocks were studied with high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in order to produce topographic images, which are more informative than ordinary CT slices. Virtual endoscopic images were produced with separate, commercially available software, paying attention to the middle ear cavity and ossicles. Four major viewing locations for virtual endoscopy (the ear canal, hypotympanum, attic and eustachian tube) developed images acceptably. The malleus and incus were visualized properly. Small structures such as the lenticular process and the stapes sometimes failed to have good imaging. The eustachian tube and attic virtual views, which are usually not receptive to ordinary endoscopy, gave proper visualization of middle ear structures. Even the smallest structure, the stapes, can produce a virtual image.Virtual endoscopic images, or topographic images, of the middle ear and ossicles contribute to the understanding of the anatomy of the middle ear, thus enhancing the chances for successful surgery.