The use of computerized tomography in otolaryngology.

Computed axial tomography represents a major advance in otolaryngology in the area of neuro-otology. Now that third and fourth generation scanners with their coned-down imagery are available with much better resolution, the scanner has become extremely useful in the entire field of otolaryngology. Major advantages of this technique are its noninvasive character and the absence of morbidity. This encourages its application to large numbers of patients with disorders at an early stage in the disease processes than was previously deemed prudent with other invasive diagnostic techniques. Intensive study will be necessary to develop the ultimate potential of the system fully in otolaryngology.