Comparison of Reformatted Two-Dimensional Images with Three-Dimensional Reconstructions Based on Images from Multi-Detector Computed Tomography of the Temporal Bone in Surgical Candidates of Chronic Otitis Media Patients

Objective: To evaluate benefit of three-dimensional reconstructed computed tomography images in preoperative assessment of the auditory ossicles in chronic otitis media patients. Materials and Methods: This study was carried out in 30 ears with chronic otitis media. All cases underwent an axial multi-detector computed tomography imaging study. In addition to the axial images, sagittal and coronal multiplanar two-dimensional reformations and three-dimensional reconstructions were generated. Auditory ossicles were assessed in two-dimensional multiplanar images and three-dimensional reconstructions and compared with surgical findings. Results: Diagnostic value of three-dimensional reconstructions were equal or lower to two-dimensional images for evaluation of the ossicular chain. Suprastructure of the stapes was difficult to visualise on the three-dimensional images. Conclusion: Three-dimensional reconstructions are not useful in preoperative evaluation of the ossicular chain in chronic otitis media patients.