title: Three-dimensional CT scan reconstruction for the assessment of congenital aural atresia.
abstract: Major advances in medical computer graphics workstations have provided the capability to produce high quality three-dimensional image reconstructions from conventional thin-section computerized tomography (CT) scans with the ability to observe the imaged structure from any angle, with views and dimensions that are comparable to actual dissections. We have applied this technique to the temporal bone to assess congenital aural atresia in surgical planning for hearing reconstruction in six patients. The digital information produced by thin-section CT scanning allowed for the re-creation of multiplanar reformatted, shaded surface, and volumetric images. With this technique the surface landmarks of the temporal bone were readily visualized, the configuration of the atretic plate and middle ear in relation to the tegmen and glenoid fossa could be precisely assessed and the structure of the ossicular mass was easily analyzed. Most significantly, the facial nerve could be accurately and easily envisioned in its entire intratemporal course. Three-dimensional imaging is a highly desirable means for observing CT scan data to facilitate the surgical planning for correction of congenital aural atresia.
authors.affiliation: Division of Head and Neck Surgery, UCLA Medical Center 90024-1624.
authors.forename: J C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Andrews
authors.forename: Y
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Anzai
authors.forename: N J
authors.initials: NJ
authors.lastname: Mankovich
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Favilli
authors.forename: R B
authors.initials: RB
authors.lastname: Lufkin
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Jabour
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003196:Computer Graphics; D004424:Ear Canal / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006314:Hearing Loss, Conductive / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012984:Software; D013701:Temporal Bone / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed