Correlation of Radiologic Versus Endoscopic Visualization of the Middle Ear: Implications for Endoscopic Ear Surgery

Objectives: To determine the limits of visualization during transcanal endoscopic ear surgery (EES) by correlating the relationship between radiologic and endoscopic anatomy using angled optics. Methods: Radiology and endoscopic visualization of tensor fold, protympanum, facial sinus (FS), sinus tympani (ST), subtympanic sinus (STS), hypotympanum, and aditus ad antrum were analyzed using a transcanal approach in 30 human temporal bones specimens with different angled endoscopes (0 degree, 45 degrees, 70 degrees) to check for the full visualization of these regions. High-resolution computed tomography (CT) was performed prior to dissection to classify retrotympanic anatomy. According to previously published descriptions, FS, ST, and STS were classified into types A, B, and C depending on their morphology relative to the mastoid segment of the facial nerve. These radiologic findings were compared to endoscopic visualization of these same structures using a Chi-squared test. Results: Visualization of the posterior wall of three different retrotympanic areas was significantly associated (FS p 
Source: Otology and Neurotology - Category: ENT & OMF Tags: MIDDLE EAR AND MASTOID DISEASE Source Type: research