Reevaluation of Common Cavity Cochlear Deformities Using CT Images and 3D Reconstruction

Introduction Aim of this study is to compare common cavity (CC) with the normal anatomy inner ear in order to evaluate whether the cavity is representing both the cochlear and the vestibular part of the inner ear and to revisit CC deformity from a 3D perspective.

Methods High-resolution Computed-Tomography (HRCT) image datasets of 17 temporal bones initially identified as CC were evaluated with 3D reconstruction and multiplanar image analysis using a free available software for 3D segmentation of the inner ear. All 3D images of CC were compared to a normal inner ear. Maximum and minimum diameter of the CC were correlated with the circumference of the CC in an axial plane.

Results In 13 cases (76 % ), CC represented only the vestibular part of the inner ear and did not represent CC as defined here and by Sennaroglu, Kontorinis and Kahn. True CC was correctly diagnosed in only one case (6 % ). In three cases (18 % ), a rudimentary part of the cochlear portion could be identified. The axes’ length of the elliptical cavity showed a strong positive linear relation to the circumference of the cavity (long axis: r = 0.94; p < 0.0001; short axis: r = 0.68; p = 0.0029).

Conclusion This study supports the assumption that many reported CC cases only represent the vestibular part of the inner ear and are therefore cases of cochlear aplasia. 3D segmentation and systematic analysis of CT-imaging add clinical value to the comprehension of the morphology of the anatomical structures of the inner ear.

Poster-PDF A-1320.pdf

Publication History

Article published online:
13 May 2021