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BACKGROUND: The suprageniculate fossa (SGF) is located between the geniculate ganglion, the middle cranial fossa (MCF) and the anterior semicircular canal (ASCC). An endoscopic transcanal approach has been recently proposed to treat the different lesions in this area. The aim of the study is to describe the anatomical pathway of this approach by measuring the dimensions of its boundaries while checking their correlation with the pneumatization of the SGF area. METHODS: This is a retrospective anatomical analysis of Cone Beam CT scans of 80 patients, for a total of 160 temporal bones analyzed. Two checkpoints were measured for the SGF route, as an internal and an external window. These are triangles between the MCF dura, the geniculate ganglion and the ASCC on parasagittal and axial planes. The pneumatization of the SGF was also assessed, classified and correlated with the measured dimensions. RESULTS: The depth of the SGF was 7.5 ± 1.8 mm. The width of the external window was 7.5 ± 1.9, 5.6 ± 2.4 and 1.6 ± 1.6 mm for the posterior, middle and anterior points of measurement, respectively. The height of the internal window was 7.6 ± 1.2, 4.5 ± 1.5 and 1.7 ± 1.7 mm for the posterior, middle and anterior points of measurement, respectively. Type A pneumatization was found in 87 cases, type B in 34 and type C in 39. The degree of pneumatization directly correlated to the depth and height of the fossa. CONCLUSIONS: The suprageniculate approach route is defined by the internal and external windows which should be evaluated during a pre-surgery imaging assessment. The detailed anatomy of the approach and the novel classification of the pneumatization of the SGF are here described which may be useful to plan a safer procedure with minimal complications.
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Vestibular neurectomy is an effective method eliminating vertigo attacks in patients suffering from disabling Meniere's disease with no clinical improvement despite conservative and intratympanic therapy. Magnetic resonance imaging allows in vivo evaluation of changes manifesting in the inner ear after treatment; however, downgrading of the endolymphatic hydrops after vestibular neurectomy had not been previously described in the literature. In the present article, a case of a patient with unilateral severe Meniere's disease treated with selective vestibular nerve section from middle fossa approach was described. Clinical symptoms and audiovestibular tests were evaluated before and 13 months after the surgery. Complete resolution of vertigo episodes and hearing preservation was achieved. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed before and after the surgery using a 3 Tesla scanner with dedicated protocol after intravenous administration of gadolinium contrast agent. In the follow-up examination, regression of the cochlear and vestibular endolymphatic hydrops was visualized, which may suggest processes occurring in the labyrinth as a result of the vestibular efferent fibers section.
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<b><br>Introduction:</b> Congenital inner ear malformations resulting from embryogenesis may be visualized in radiological scans. Many attempts have been made to describe and classify the defects of the inner ear based on anatomical and radiological findings.</br> <b><br>Aim:</b> The aim was to propose and discuss computed tomography multi-planar and 3D image assessment protocols for detailed analysis of inner ear malformations in patients undergoing cochlear implantation counseling.</br> <b><br>Material and methods:</b> A retrospective analysis of 22 malformed inner ears. CT scans were analyzed using the Multi-Planar Reconstruction (MPR) option and 3D reconstruction.</br> <b><br>Results:</b> The protocol of image interpretation was developed to allow reproducibility for evaluating each set of images. The following malformations were identified: common cavity, cochlear hypoplasia type II, III, and IV, incomplete partition type II and III, and various combinations of vestibule labyrinth malformations. All anomalies have been presented and highlighted in figures with appropriate descriptions for easier identification. Figures of normal inner ears were also included for comparison. 3D reconstructions for each malformation were presented, adding clinical value to the detailed analysis.</br> <b><br>Conclusions:</b> Properly analyzing CT scans in cochlear implantation counseling is a necessary and beneficial tool for appropriate candidate selection and preparation for surgery. As proposed in this study, the unified scans evaluation scheme simplifies the identification of malformations and reduces the risk of omitting particular anomalies. Multi-planar assessment of scans provides most of the necessary details. The 3D reconstruction technique is valuable in addition to diagnostics influencing the decision-making process. It can minimize the risk of misdiagnosis. Disclosure of the inner ear defect and its precise imaging provides detailed anatomical knowledge of each ear, enabling the selection of the appropriate cochlear implant electrode and the optimal surgical technique.</br>.
Subject(s)
Cochlear Implantation , Cochlear Implants , Vestibule, Labyrinth , Humans , Retrospective Studies , Imaging, Three-Dimensional , Reproducibility of Results , Tomography, X-Ray Computed , CounselingABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: The aim was to describe the spectrum of inner ear malformations in CHARGE syndrome and propose a Computed Tomography (CT) detailed scan evaluation methodology. The secondary aim was to correlate the CT findings with hearing thresholds. METHODS: Twenty ears of ten patients diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome were subjected to CT analysis focusing on the inner ear and internal acoustic canal. The protocol used is presented in detail. ASSR results were analyzed and correlated with inner ear malformations. RESULTS: Cochlear hypoplasia type III was the most common malformation found in 12 ears (60%). Cochlear hypoplasia type II, aplasia with a dilated vestibule, and rudimentary otocyst were also identified. In 20%, no cochlear anomaly was found. The lateral Semicircular Canal (SCC) absence affected 100% of ears, the absence of the posterior SCC 95%, and the superior SCC 65%. Better development of cochlea structures and IAC correlated significantly with the lower hearing thresholds. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that rudimentary SCC or a complete absence of these SCCs was universally observed in all patients diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome. This finding supports the idea that inner ear anomalies are a hallmark feature of the CHARGE, contributing to its distinct clinical profile. The presence of inner ear malformations has substantial clinical implications. Audiological assessments are crucial for CHARGE syndrome, as hearing loss is common. Early detection of these malformations can guide appropriate interventions, such as hearing aids or cochlear implants, which may significantly improve developmental outcomes and communication for affected individuals. Recognizing inner ear malformations as a diagnostic criterion presents implications beyond clinical diagnosis. A better understanding of these malformations can advance the knowledge of CHARGE pathophysiology. It may also help guide future research into targeted therapies to mitigate the impact of inner ear anomalies on hearing and balance function.
Subject(s)
CHARGE Syndrome , Hearing Loss, Sensorineural , Vestibule, Labyrinth , Humans , Hearing Loss, Sensorineural/diagnostic imaging , CHARGE Syndrome/complications , CHARGE Syndrome/diagnostic imaging , Cochlea , Tomography, X-Ray Computed , Retrospective StudiesABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The facial sinus is a recess of the lateral retrotympanum located between the chorda tympani (ChT) and facial nerve (FN). Chronic otitis media with cholesteatoma often spreads from the pars flaccida to the facial sinus (FS). In stapedotomy, if an unfavorable ChT type is encountered, there is a need for removal of bone between the ChT and FN. The aim of the study was to assess FSs in adults and children according to Alicandri-Ciufelli classification, to measure FS width and depth in computed tomography scans, evaluate the correlation between measurements and different types of facial sinuses, and provide a clinical context of these findings. METHODS: Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) of 130 adults and High Resolution Computed Tomography of 140 children were reviewed. The type of facial sinus was assessed according to Alicardi-Ciufelli's classification in different age groups. Width of entrance to facial sinus (FSW) and depth of FS (FSD) were evaluated among age groups. RESULTS: Type A of FS is dominant in both adult and children populations included in the study. The average depth of FS was 2.31±1.43 mm and 2.01±0.90 in children and adults respectively. The width of FS was 3.99±0.69 and 3.39±0.98 in children and adults respectively. The depth of FS (FSD) presented significant deviations (ANOVA, p<0.05) among all three types and age groups. In 116/540 (21.5%) cases the value of FSD was below 1 mm. CONCLUSION: The qualitative classification of facial sinuses into types A, B and C, introduced by Alicandri-Ciufelli and al. is justified by statistically significant differences of depth between individual types of tympanic sinuses. Type A sinuses may be extremely shallow (<1 mm - As) or normal (>1 mm - An). Preoperative assessment of CT scans of the temporal bones gives crucial information about type and size of facial sinus. It may increase the safety of surgeries in this area and play a role in choosing an optimal approach and surgical tools.
Subject(s)
Otitis Media , Temporal Bone , Adult , Child , Humans , Temporal Bone/diagnostic imaging , Ear, Middle , Otitis Media/diagnostic imaging , Otitis Media/surgery , Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods , Tympanic MembraneABSTRACT
We present a rare finding of the arachnoid matter invaginating into the base of middle cranial fossa and creating an abnormal space. Presented entity was incidentally found in head CT scan of 12-year-old male. Based on the radiological characteristics in CT scans and MR images, the diagnosis of intradiploic arachnoid cyst (AC) was suggested. After surgical intervention and histopathological analysis of the specimen, the diagnosis was confirmed. We assume this is the first description of large intrasphenoid AC without any traumatic or iatrogenic cause. The literature provides many different terms for the phenomenon. We are proposing the term intradiploic arachnoid diverticulum as the more accurate for capturing the essence of the phenomenon. It provides clear differentiation of the entities from classical arachnoid cysts since they are of different anatomical localization (intradural vs. extradural) and etiopathogenesis. Management with arachnoid diverticulum is not yet established, but observation with serial imaging studies should be recommended as primary management in case of asymptomatic cyst. When cyst is symptomatic, surgical treatment may be required.
Subject(s)
Arachnoid Cysts , Diverticulum , Male , Humans , Child , Arachnoid Cysts/surgery , Skull/surgery , Head/pathology , Radiography , Diverticulum/complicationsABSTRACT
Abstract Objectives The aim was to describe the spectrum of inner ear malformations in CHARGE syndrome and propose a Computed Tomography (CT) detailed scan evaluation methodology. The secondary aim was to correlate the CT findings with hearing thresholds. Methods Twenty ears of ten patients diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome were subjected to CT analysis focusing on the inner ear and internal acoustic canal. The protocol used is presented in detail. ASSR results were analyzed and correlated with inner ear malformations. Results Cochlear hypoplasia type III was the most common malformation found in 12 ears (60%). Cochlear hypoplasia type II, aplasia with a dilated vestibule, and rudimentary otocyst were also identified. In 20%, no cochlear anomaly was found. The lateral Semicircular Canal (SCC) absence affected 100% of ears, the absence of the posterior SCC 95%, and the superior SCC 65%. Better development of cochlea structures and IAC correlated significantly with the lower hearing thresholds. Conclusion This study demonstrated that rudimentary SCC or a complete absence of these SCCs was universally observed in all patients diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome. This finding supports the idea that inner ear anomalies are a hallmark feature of the CHARGE, contributing to its distinct clinical profile. The presence of inner ear malformations has substantial clinical implications. Audiological assessments are crucial for CHARGE syndrome, as hearing loss is common. Early detection of these malformations can guide appropriate interventions, such as hearing aids or cochlear implants, which may significantly improve developmental outcomes and communication for affected individuals. Recognizing inner ear malformations as a diagnostic criterion presents implications beyond clinical diagnosis. A better understanding of these malformations can advance the knowledge of CHARGE pathophysiology. It may also help guide future research into targeted therapies to mitigate the impact of inner ear anomalies on hearing and balance function. Level of evidence: 4.
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OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to report the epidemiologic characteristics of tumors of the cerebellopontine angle (CPAT) and internal acoustic meatus in adult Polish population throughout the second decade of XXI century and to analyze their treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patients with cerebellopontine angle (CPA) and internal acoustic meatus tumors diagnosed in Poland in 2011-2020 was performed. Data recorded in the National Health Fund (NHF) database were analyzed. International Classification of Diseases codes (ICD-9 and ICD-10) were used to identify study group patients and treatment procedures. RESULTS: From 2011 to 2020 6,173 Polish adult patients were diagnosed with cerebellopontine angle and internal acoustic meatus tumors. The average incidence in Poland is 1.99 per 100,000 residents/year. It mostly affects women (61.64%), and the average age of patients is 53.78 years. The incidence has steadily increased over the past decade. Treatment has changed significantly over the years, with a definite increase in the number of patients treated with radiotherapy (from 0.54 to 19.34%), and a decrease in surgical therapies (from 41.67 to 6.8%). The most common symptoms were vertigo and/or dizziness (43.48%) and sensorineural hearing loss (39.58%). 4.65% of patients suffered from sudden deafness, in this group of patients the risk of CPAT detection was the highest (6.25 / 1000 patients). CONCLUSIONS: The total incidence of CPAT and demographic characteristics of patients were comparable to other studies. Our study demonstrated the increased number of patients are being treated with radiotherapy and fewer with microsurgery. Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is an uncommon manifestation of CPAT but proper diagnosis should be undertaken because the risk of diagnosis such tumors is greater in this group.
Subject(s)
Hearing Loss, Sensorineural , Neoplasms , Humans , Adult , Female , Middle Aged , Poland/epidemiology , Cerebellopontine Angle , Retrospective Studies , AcousticsABSTRACT
In the original publication [...].
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Background: Modern medicine requires intensive research to find new diagnostic and therapeutic solutions. Recently, upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) doped with lanthanide ions have attracted significant attention. Methods: The efficient internalization of UCNPs by cells was confirmed, and their precise cellular localization was determined by electron microscopy and confocal studies. Results: UCNPs colocalized only with specific organelles, such as early endosomes, late endosomes and lysosomes. Furthermore, experiments with chemical inhibitors confirmed the involvement of endocytosis in UCNPs internalization and helped select several mechanisms involved in internalization. Exposure to selected UCNPs concentrations did not show significant cytotoxicity, induction of oxidative stress or ultrastructural changes in cells. Conclusion: This study suggests that UCNPs offer new diagnostic options for biomedical infrared imaging.
Subject(s)
Lanthanoid Series Elements , Nanoparticles , Tissue Distribution , Lanthanoid Series Elements/chemistry , Diagnostic Imaging , Nanoparticles/chemistryABSTRACT
The photocatalytic degradation of the wastewater dye pollutant methylene blue (MB) at ZnO nanostructured porous thin films, deposited by direct current reactive magnetron sputtering on Si substrates, was studied. It was observed that over 4 photocatalytic cycles (0.3 mg · l-1MB solution, 540 minUV irradiation), the rate constantkof MB degradation decreased by â¼50%, varying in the range (1.54 ÷ 0.78) · 10-9(mol·l-1·min-1). For a deeper analysis of the photodegradation mechanism, detailed information on the nanostructured ZnO surface morphology and local surface and subsurface chemistry (nonstoichiometry) were obtained by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) as complementary analytical methods. The SEM studies revealed that at the surface of the nanostructured ZnO thin films a coral reef structure containing polycrystalline coral dendrites is present, and that, after the photocatalytic experiments, the sizes of individual crystallites increased, varying in the range 43 ÷ 76 nm for the longer axis, and in the range 28 ÷ 58 nm for the shorter axis. In turn, the XPS studies showed a slight non-stoichiometry, mainly defined by the relative [O]/[Zn] concentration of ca. 1.4, whereas [C]/[Zn] was ca. 1.2, both before and after the photocatalytic experiments. This phenomenon was directly related to the presence of superficial ZnO lattice oxygen atoms that can participate in the oxidation of the adsorbed MB molecules, as well as to the presence of surface hydroxyl groups acting as hole-acceptors to produce OH· radicals, which can be responsible for the generation of superoxide ions. In addition, after experiments, the XPS measurements revealed the presence of carboxyl and carbonyl functional groups, ascribable to the oxidation by-products formed during the photodegradation of MB.
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Starch content is one of the major quality criteria targeted by potato breeding programs. Traditional potato breeding is a laborious duty due to the tetraploid nature and immense heterozygosity of potato genomes. In addition, screening for functional genetic variations in wild relatives is slow and strenuous. Moreover, genetic diversity, which is the raw material for breeding programs, is limited due to vegetative propagation used in the potato industry. Somaclonal variation provides a time-efficient tool to breeders for obtaining genetic variability, which is essential for breeding programs, at a reasonable cost and independent of sophisticated technology. The present investigation aimed to create potato somaclones with an improved potential for starch accumulation. Based on the weight and starch content of tubers, the somaclonal variant Ros 119, among 105 callus-sourced clones, recorded a higher tuberization potential than the parent cv Lady Rosetta in a field experiment. Although this somaclone was similar to the parent in the number of tubers produced, it exhibited tubers with 42 and 61% higher fresh and dry weights, respectively. Additionally, this clone recorded 10 and 75% increases in starch content based on the dry weight and average content per plant, respectively. The enhanced starch accumulation was associated with the upregulation of six starch-synthesis-related genes, namely, the AGPase, GBSS I, SBE I, SBE II, SS II and SS III genes. AGPase affords the glycosyl moieties required for the synthesis of amylose and amylopectin. GBSS is required for amylose elongation, while SBE I, SBE II, SS II and SS III are responsible for amylopectin.
Subject(s)
Paranasal Sinuses , Humans , Paranasal Sinuses/diagnostic imaging , Face , Maxillary SinusABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Retrofacial approach (RFA) is an access route to sinus tympani (ST) and it is used in cholesteatoma surgery, especially when type C ST is encountered. It may also be used to gain an access to stapedius muscle to assess the evoked stapedius reflex threshold. The primary object of this study was to evaluate the morphology of sinus tympani and its relationship to facial nerve (FN) and posterior semicircular canal (PSC) in context of planning retrofacial approach in pneumatized temporal bones. METHODS: CBCT of 130 adults were reviewed. The type of sinus tympani was assessed according to Marchioni's classification. Width of entrance to sinus tympani (STW), depth of ST (STD), distance between the posterior semicircular canal and facial nerve (F-PSC), distance between the latter plane to the floor of ST at the right angle (P-ST) were measured at level of round window (RW) and pyramidal ridge (PR). RESULTS: All of the bones were well-aerated and classified in Dexian Tan pneumatization group 3 or 4. Type B of ST is dominant (70.8%) in adult population with no history of inflammatory otologic diseases, followed by type C (22.7%) and then type A (6.5%). The depth of ST (STD) presented significant deviations (ANOVA, p < 0.05) among all three types. STW reaches greater values on the level of PR. F-PSC does not correlate with type of ST. In over 75% of examined type C sinus tympani the distance P-ST was less than 1 mm. CONCLUSIONS: The qualitative classification of the sinus tympani into types A, B and C, introduced by Marchioni is justified by statistically significant differences of depth between individual types of tympanic sinuses. The STW distance reaches greater values inferiorly-it may suggest that RFA should be performed in infero-superior manner rather than opposite direction. Preoperative assessment of temporal bones CT scans gives very important information about size of sinus tympani and distance between FN and PSC.
Subject(s)
Temporal Bone , Adult , Humans , Ear, Middle/anatomy & histology , Ear, Middle/diagnostic imaging , Ear, Middle/surgery , Stapedius , Temporal Bone/diagnostic imaging , Temporal Bone/surgery , Temporal Bone/anatomy & histology , Tympanic Membrane/diagnostic imaging , Tympanic Membrane/surgeryABSTRACT
Global climate change is a significant challenge that will significantly lower crop yield and staple grain quality. The present investigation was conducted to assess the effects of the foliar application of either Si (1.5 mM) or Si nanoparticles (1.66 mM) on the yield and grain quality attributes of two wheat genotypes (Triticum aestivum L.), cv. Shandweel 1 and cv. Gemmeiza 9, planted at normal sowing date and late sowing date (heat stress). Si and Si nanoparticles markedly mitigated the observed decline in yield and reduced the heat stress intensity index value at late sowing dates, and improved yield quality via the decreased level of protein, particularly glutenin, as well as the lowered activity of α-amylase in wheat grains, which is considered a step in improving grain quality. Moreover, Si and nanoSi significantly increased the oil absorption capacity (OAC) of the flour of stressed wheat grains. In addition, both silicon and nanosilicon provoked an increase in cellulose, pectin, total phenols, flavonoid, oxalic acid, total antioxidant power, starch and soluble protein contents, as well as Ca and K levels, in heat-stressed wheat straw, concomitant with a decrease in lignin and phytic acid contents. In conclusion, the pronounced positive effects associated with improving yield quantity and quality were observed in stressed Si-treated wheat compared with Si nanoparticle-treated ones, particularly in cv. Gemmeiza 9.
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Incorporation of Bi into GaAs-(Ga,Al)As-Ga(As,Bi) core-shell nanowires grown by molecular beam epitaxy is studied with transmission electron microscopy. Nanowires are grown on GaAs(111)B substrates with Au-droplet assisted mode. Bi-doped shells are grown at low temperature (300 °C) with a close to stoichiometric Ga/As flux ratio. At low Bi fluxes, the Ga(As,Bi) shells are smooth, with Bi completely incorporated into the shells. Higher Bi fluxes (Bi/As flux ratio ~ 4%) led to partial segregation of Bi as droplets on the nanowires sidewalls, preferentially located at the nanowire segments with wurtzite structure. We demonstrate that such Bi droplets on the sidewalls act as catalysts for the growth of branches perpendicular to the GaAs trunks. Due to the tunability between zinc-blende and wurtzite polytypes by changing the nanowire growth conditions, this effect enables fabrication of branched nanowire architectures with branches generated from selected (wurtzite) nanowire segments.
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We have performed electron transport and angle-resolved photo-emission spectroscopy (ARPES) measurements on single crystals of transition metal dipnictide TaAs2cleaved along the (2¯01) surface which has the lowest cleavage energy. A Fourier transform of the Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations shows four different peaks whose angular dependence was studied with respect to the angle between magnetic field and the [2¯01] direction. The results indicate elliptical shape of the Fermi surface cross-sections. Additionally, a mobility spectrum analysis was carried out, which also reveals at least four types of carriers contributing to the conductance (two kinds of electrons and two kinds of holes). ARPES spectra were taken on freshly cleaved (2¯01) surface and it was found that bulk states pockets at constant energy surface are elliptical, which confirms the magnetotransport angle dependent studies. First-principles calculations support the interpretation of the experimental results. The theoretical calculations better reproduce the ARPES data if the theoretical Fermi level (FL) is increased, which is due to a small n-doping of the samples. This shifts the FL closer to the Dirac point, allowing investigating the physics of the Dirac and Weyl points, making this compound a platform for the investigation of the Dirac and Weyl points in three-dimensional materials.
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OBJECTIVE: Sinus tympani (ST) is considered the most constant among retrotympanic recesses but it is of great anatomical variability in shape and relation to mastoid portion of facial nerve. ST is difficult to access when clearing the cholesteatoma or serving as a window for cochlear implantation. The objective was to describe morphology of ST and assess feasibility of retrofacial approach in children under 5 years old. METHODS: HRCT images of 150 children were reviewed. The type of sinus tympani was assessed according to Marchioni's classification. Width of entrance to sinus tympani (STW), depth of ST (STD), distance between the posterior semicircular canal and facial nerve (F-PSC), distance between the latter plane to the floor of ST at the right angle (P-ST) were measured. Width (HS-SS) and length (ML) of mastoid process were also measured. RESULTS: From 300 temporal bones analyzed, the most common type of ST was type B (59.3%), followed by type C (34.3%) and type A (6.3%). The average depth of ST was 3.38±1.04 mm (1.32-8.24 mm) and mean value of F-PSC (width of retrofacial approach) was 4.91±0.75. The depth of ST (STD) presented significant deviations (ANOVA, p<0.05) among all three types. The value of ML increased with age (very high correlation). CONCLUSION: Deep tympanic sinus (type C) is more frequent in children than in adult populations and it may suggest that pneumatization may affect the development of tympanic sinus final shape. Retrofacial approach can be used in selected pediatric patients after HRCT analysis.
Subject(s)
Sexually Transmitted Diseases , Tomography, X-Ray Computed , Adult , Child , Child, Preschool , Ear, Middle/anatomy & histology , Humans , Mastoid/diagnostic imaging , Temporal Bone/anatomy & histology , Temporal Bone/diagnostic imaging , Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methodsABSTRACT
PURPOSE: Sinus tympani is the space in the retrotympanum, with variable morphology. Computed tomography is a common tool to investigate sinus tympani anatomy. During cochlear implantation or tympanoplasty, electrocochleography can be used for hearing monitoring. In such a surgical strategy the electrode is placed in the round window's region throughout posterior tympanotomy. Common accessible needle-shaped electrodes using is difficult in achieving intraoperative stabilization. The aim of the study is to assess the dimensions and shape of sinus tympani, basing on the micro computed tomography scans for purposes of establishing the possible new electrocochleography electrode shape. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixteen fresh frozen cadaveric temporal bones were dissected. MicroCT measurements included the depth and the width of sinus tympani, width of facial canal with stapedius muscle chamber. Obtained data were analyzed statistically with the use of RStudio 1.3.959 software. RESULTS: The highest average width of sinus tympani amounted for 2.68 mm, depth measured at the round window plane for 3.19 mm. Width of facial canal with stapedius muscle chamber highest average values at the round window plane- 3.32 mm. The lowest average minimum and maximum values were calculated at the 1 mm above the round window plane. The highest average posterior tympanotomy width was 2.91 mm. CONCLUSIONS: The shape of the tympanic sinus is like a trough with the narrowest and deepest dimensions in the middle part. The ST shape and dimensions should be taken into account in constructing the ECochG electrode, designed for optimal placement through posterior tympanotomy approach.