CT of the temporal bones

CT of the temporal bones — is a modern method of radiation diagnostics that allows detailed assessment of the bony structures in the ear area, auditory canals, and adjacent anatomical areas. The examination is used for ear pain, hearing impairment, inflammatory processes, consequences of injuries, and suspicion of structural changes when an accurate and informative examination is needed.

At the «Oxford Medical» clinic, CT of the temporal bones is performed on modern GE Revolution Maxima and SIEMENS Healthineers SOMATOM go.Up scanners. The equipment allows obtaining detailed layer-by-layer images of even small bony structures and helps more accurately assess the nature of pathological changes.

The examination can be undergone in Kyiv on the right bank — near the «Dorohozhychi» metro station, as well as on the left — in Berezniaky. You can make an appointment for CT by phone or through the feedback form on the website.

CT of the temporal bones allows obtaining detailed layer-by-layer images of anatomical structures located in the ear area. The examination helps assess whether there are changes that may affect hearing, balance, or the course of inflammatory diseases.

During CT, it is possible to assess:

• the external auditory canal;

• structures of the middle and inner ear;

• auditory ossicles;

• the mastoid process;

• the integrity of the bony structures of the temporal bone.

CT may be useful in case of suspicion of complications of otitis, consequences of injuries, congenital developmental anomalies, or changes that require detailed assessment before further treatment.

CT helps to assess in detail the structures of the middle and inner ear, as well as clarify the spread of the pathological process. Such an examination is most often prescribed by an ENT specialist if symptoms persist for a long time or additional diagnostics are needed before treatment.

• The doctors of «Oxford Medical» recommend not postponing the prescribed examination if the ear disease has a prolonged or complicated course. In such cases, the inflammatory process may spread to the mastoid process, structures of the middle ear, or temporal bone, increasing the risk of persistent hearing loss and other complications. CT helps clarify the extent of changes and plan further treatment.

CT of the temporal bones is usually performed without contrast enhancement, so there are few limitations to this examination. The main attention is paid to conditions in which radiation exposure is undesirable or the patient cannot lie calmly during scanning.

The examination may be postponed in the following cases:

• severe general condition of the patient;

• inability to remain motionless during the procedure;

• the need for contrast enhancement in the presence of allergy to contrast agents or significant impairment of kidney function;

• pregnancy, especially in the early stages.

In such cases, the doctor may suggest alternative diagnostic methods.

Special preparation for this examination is usually not needed.

Before the procedure, it is recommended to:

• remove earrings, hairpins, hearing aids, and other metal objects in the head area;

• inform the specialist about previous operations, implants, or injuries in the area of the ear or temples;

If the examination is planned with contrast enhancement, preparation may include a blood test for creatinine to check kidney function and food restriction for 4–6 hours before the procedure.

During the examination, the patient lies down on the movable table of the computed tomography scanner. The head is positioned so that the area of the temporal bones falls into the scanning area and the images are as clear as possible.

Scanning lasts several minutes and does not cause pain. During this time, it is important to lie motionless, since even minor movements can worsen the quality of the images.

The scanner performs a series of thin layer-by-layer images, which allow detailed assessment of the bony structures, auditory canals, middle and inner ear. After the procedure is completed, the radiologist analyzes the obtained data and prepares a written conclusion. The CT results are given to the patient for further consultation with the doctor who referred them for the examination.

For CT of the temporal bones, the cost can be viewed here. At the «Oxford Medical» clinic, computed tomography is performed on modern expert-class devices GE Revolution Maxima and SIEMENS Healthineers SOMATOM go.Up. The equipment allows obtaining detailed images of small bony structures, which is especially important in the diagnosis of diseases of the ear and temporal region.

The examination can be undergone in Kyiv on the right bank — near the «Dorohozhychi» metro station, as well as on the left — in Berezniaky. To make an appointment, call the contact center or order a callback on the website.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a doctor’s consultation.

Sources:

• American College of Radiology

• US National Library of Medicine

• RadiologyInfo, American College of Radiology