The application of three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging rendering of the inner ear in assessment for cochlear implantation.

OBJECTIVE

To study the use of three-dimensional (3D) rendering of T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images into 3D models of the inner ear in the preoperative assessment for cochlear implantation.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective case review of cochlear implant candidates undergoing preoperative imaging studies to determine their suitability for surgical implantation.

SETTING

A tertiary referral center for the northwest area of England with an established 10-year-old program in cochlear implantation.

PATIENTS

Selected adult and pediatric patients referred for cochlear implant assessment from 1996 to 1998, who underwent computerized tomography (CT) and MRI studies.

INTERVENTION

Diagnostic imaging modality to assess the structure and patency of the inner ear.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

To see how detailed anatomic information provided by these 3D models influenced surgical decisions.

RESULTS

Four case studies (with their 3D models) are presented to illustrate different points of interest.

CONCLUSION

These 3D models provide the implanting surgeon with precise, detailed, and easily interpretable information about the cochlea, which help to guide surgical implantation, or in certain cases, to decide against attempting surgery in the presence of unfavorable anatomic factors.