Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  2009 Sep;52(9):730-735. 10.3342/kjorl-hns.2009.52.9.730.

A Spatial Index Analysis for Decision on the First Opening of Facial Recess in Posterior Tympanotomy

• Kang JH
• Choi KM
• Han JH
• Kim CD
• Kim SW
• Park SH

• KMID: 2277094
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3342/kjorl-hns.2009.52.9.730

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Temporal bone is a complicated structure anatomically. Highresolution computed tomography (HRCT) provides a good method for examination of the middle ear, inner ear anatomy and pathologic changes in the temporal bones. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relations of facial nerve and other structures in temporal bone and factors influencing access to posterior tympanotomy according to the age, sex and degree of temporal bone pneumatizaton.
SUBJECTS AND METHOD
A total of 133 ears of temporal bone computer tomograph (TBCT) were analyzed. We measured the distances and angle between important surgical landmarks, and compared the data according to the age, sex and mastoid pneumatization.
RESULTS
We presented the angle between the posterior wall of external auditory canal and the facial nerve with the index for facial nerve preservation in posterior tympanotomy. This angle is 10.05 degrees other indices are not related statistically.
CONCLUSION
This results may enable preoperative assessment and provide background knowledge to prevent facial nerve injury when performing a posterior tympanotomy.

Keyword

Facial recess; External auditory canal; Posterior tympanotomy; Temporal bone

MeSH Terms

Ear
Ear Canal
Ear, Inner
Ear, Middle
Facial Nerve
Facial Nerve Injuries
Mastoid
Temporal Bone