[MRI in the diagnosis of recurrent cholesteatoma of the petrous bone].

Nine cases of recurrent petrous cholesteatomas have been studied by a 1,5 T MR unit. Gadolinium was injected in 1 case. In all cases, comparison between MR, CT and clinical findings were made. MR allows for accurate topographic study and assessment of cholesteatomas extension, in particular in the posterior fossa and skull base. Relationships with the internal carotid artery and the jugular vein are clearly depicted.