A systematic technique for comprehensive evaluation of the temporal bone by computed tomography.

A systematic method for comprehensive visualization of the temporal bone structures using thin-section, high-resolution computed tomography (CT) was developed. In relation to the anthropologic baseline (0 degrees), four separate tomographic planes of 0 degrees, 30 degrees, 70 degrees, and 105 degrees were each found to optimize different aspects of temporal bone evaluation with significant reduction in the radiation dose to the lens. Virtually all patients were able to maintain the necessary head positioning that allows for both direct coronal and axial sections. It is concluded that in the majority of cases, thin-section, high-resolution CT can replace polytomography, although the examinations may be complementary in the evaluation of certain abnormalities.