Three-dimensional multislice CT imaging of otitis media

It is difficult to depict the entire middle ear especially the stapes before three-dimensional (3D) CT by multislice helical CT was introduced. 3D-CT was performed on 10 patients with chronic otitis media and cholesteatoma. Anatomic details were comprehensively demonstrated by a volume rendering algorithm. It was found that it is important to select the threshold for demonstration of 3D images optimally. In order to differentiate chronic otitis media from cholesteatoma, an index related to the presence or absence of bone destruction was employed, as in previous studies. 3D imaging is a highly desirable means for middle ear in clinical use.