Background The Visible Human Project(VHP) initiated by the U.S. National Library of Medicine has drawn much attention and interests from around the world. The Visible Chinese Human(VCH) project has started in China. T...Background The Visible Human Project(VHP) initiated by the U.S. National Library of Medicine has drawn much attention and interests from around the world. The Visible Chinese Human(VCH) project has started in China. The current study aims at acquiring a feasible virtual methodology for reconstructing the temporal bone of the Chinese population, which may provide an accurate 3-D model of important temporal bone structures that can be used in teaching and patient care for medical scientists and clinicians. Methods A series of sectional images of the temporal bone were generated from section slices of a female cadaver head. On each sectional image, SOIs (structures of interest) were segmented by carefully defining their contours and filling their areas with certain gray scale values. The processed volume data were then inducted into the 3D Slicer software(developed by the Surgical Planning Lab at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the MIT AI Lab) for resegmentation and generation of a set of tagged images of the SOIs. 3D surface models of SOIs were then reconstructed from these images. Results The temporal bone and structures in the temporal bone, including the tympanic cavity, mastoid cells, sigmoid sinus and internal carotid artery, were successfully reconstructed. The orientation of and spatial relationship among these structures were easily visualized in the reconstructed surface models. Conclusion The 3D Slicer software can be used for 3- dimensional visualization of anatomic structures in the temporal bone, which will greatly facilitate the advance of knowledge and techniques critical for studying and treating disorders involving the temporal bone.展开更多
Introduction: Superior semicircular canal dehiscence(SCD) remains difficult to diagnose despite advances in high-resolution computed tomography(HRCT) imaging. We hypothesize possible associations between gross tempora...Introduction: Superior semicircular canal dehiscence(SCD) remains difficult to diagnose despite advances in high-resolution computed tomography(HRCT) imaging. We hypothesize possible associations between gross temporal bone anatomy and sub-millimeter pathology of the semicircular canals, which may supplement imaging and clinical suspicion. This pilot study investigates differences in gross temporal bone anatomic parameters between temporal bones with and without SCD.Methods: Records were reviewed for 18 patients referred to an otology clinic complaining of dizziness with normal caloric stimulation results indicative of non-vestibular findings. Eleven patients had normal temporal bone anatomy while seven had SCD. Three-dimensional reconstruction of every patient's temporal bone anatomy was created from patient-specific computational tomography images. Surface area(SA),volume(V), and SA to V ratios(SA:V) were computed across temporal bone anatomical parameters.Results: SCD temporal bones have significantly smaller V, and larger temporal bone SA. Mean(±SD) V was 21,484 ± 3,921 mm^3 in temporal bones without SCD and 16,343 ± 34,471 mm^3 for those with SCD. Their respective SA were 13,733 ± 1,603 mm^2 and 18,073 ± 3,002 mm^2.Temporal bone airspaces and lateral semicircular canals did not demonstrate significant differences where SCD was and was not present. Plots of MV_(warm)response against computed SCD temporal bone anatomic parameters(SA, V and SA:V) showed moderate to strong correlations:temporal bone SA:V(r= 0.64), temporal bone airspace V(r= 0.60), temporal bone airspace SA(r= 0.55), LSCC SA(r= 0.51), and LSCC-toTM Distance(r= 0.65).Conclusions: This analysis demonstrated that SCD is associated with decreased temporal bone volume and density. The defect in SCD does not appear to influence caloric responses.展开更多
Temporal bone malignant tumors are characterized by atypical clinical symptoms,and easy recurrence and metastasis.They account for 0.2%of head and neck tumors,and the most common pathological type is squamous cell car...Temporal bone malignant tumors are characterized by atypical clinical symptoms,and easy recurrence and metastasis.They account for 0.2%of head and neck tumors,and the most common pathological type is squamous cell carcinoma.Patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the temporal bone are often at advanced stages when diagnosed,and lose the chance for surgery.Neoadjuvant immunotherapy has recently been approved as the first-line treatment for refractory recurrent/metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.However,it remains to be determined whether neoadjuvant immunotherapy can be used as the first-line treatment for temporal bone squamous cell carcinoma to reduce the tumor stage before surgery,or as a palliative treatment for patients with unresectable advanced stage carcinoma.The present study reviews the development of immunotherapy and its clinical application in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma,summarizes the treatment of temporal bone squamous cell carcinoma,and prospects the neoadjuvant immunotherapy as the first-line treatment for temporal bone squamous cell carcinoma.展开更多
Preparation of the temporal bone for light microscopy is an important step in histological studies of the inner ear. Due to the complexity of structures of the inner ear, it is difficult to measure or compare structur...Preparation of the temporal bone for light microscopy is an important step in histological studies of the inner ear. Due to the complexity of structures of the inner ear, it is difficult to measure or compare structures of interest without a commonly accepted standardized measure of temporal bone sections. Therefore, standardization of temporal bone sections is very important for histological assessment of sensory hair cells and peripheral ganglion neurons in the cochlear and vestibular systems. The standardized temporal bone sectioning is oriented to a plane parallel to the outer and internal auditory canals. Sections are collected from the epitympanum to the hypotympanum to reveal layers in the order of the crista ampullaris of the superior and lateral semicircular canals, macula utriculi and macula sacculi, superior vestibular ganglion neurons, macula of saccule and inferior vestibular ganglion neurons, cochlear modiolus, endolymphatic duct and endolymphatic sac, and finally the crista ampullaris of the posterior semicircular canal. Moreover, technical details of preparing for temporal bone sectioning including fixation, decalcification, whole temporal bone staining, embedding penetration, and embedding orientation are also discussed.展开更多
Metastasis of lung cancer to the temporal bone is a very rare disease and subjective tinnitus as the present-ing symptom in these patients is even rarer. Here we report a case in which a 42-year-old male presented wit...Metastasis of lung cancer to the temporal bone is a very rare disease and subjective tinnitus as the present-ing symptom in these patients is even rarer. Here we report a case in which a 42-year-old male presented with subjective tinnitus of three months, with no pulmonary disease symptoms. Pure tone audiometry indi-cated moderate conductive deafness in left ear with an air-bone gap of 21.3 dB. HRCT temporal bone scan-ning indicated high-density shadows in the left epitympanic cavity, sinus tympani and mastoid cavity. Chron-ic otitis media with cholesteatoma was suspected and surgical treatment recommended. However, preopera-tive chest x-ray revealed high-density millet lesions scattered widely in both lungs. HRCT lung scanning confirmed the lungs lesions and indicated lung cancer. In order to determine correlations between the tempo-ral bone and pulmonary lesions, a CT-guided trans-mastoid aspiration biopsy and immunohistochemical study were conducted, which confirmed that the temporal bone lesion was metastatic from the lungs. The pa-tient was given a series of chemotherapy immediately and his tinnitus significantly improved after three months of treatment, with full recovery of his hearing and complete resolution of shadows in the mastoid cavity. Unfortunately, he subsequently developed multiple bone metastases in the 9th month and cerebral metastasis in the 18th month. Multiple organ failure resulted in death in 2.5 years.展开更多
Objective To investigate the clinical outcomes of facial never decompression via a combined subtemporal-su- pralabyrinthine approach to geniculate ganglion for management of facial paralysis in temporal bone fracture....Objective To investigate the clinical outcomes of facial never decompression via a combined subtemporal-su- pralabyrinthine approach to geniculate ganglion for management of facial paralysis in temporal bone fracture. Methods Eighteen patients with unilateral facial paresis due to temporal bone fracture were treated between March 2003 and March 2011. Facial function was House-Braekmann(HB) grade m in 6 patients, HB grade V in 9 patients and HB grade VI in 3 patients. The preoperative mean air conduction threshold was 52 dB HL for the 15 cases with longitudinal temporal bone fracture and showed severe sensorineural heating loss in the 3 cases with transverse temporal bone fracture. Fracture lines were detected in 15 cases on temporal bone axial CT scans and ossicular disruption was determined in 11 cases by virtual CT endoscopy. The geniculate ganglion or the tympanic mastoid segment of the facial nerve showed an irregular morphology on curved planar reformation images of the facial nerve canal. After an intact canal wall mastoi- do-epitympanectomy, the ossicular chain recess was opened by drilling through the was disrupted, the incus was removed to damage was evaluated. If the ossicular chain was intact, the supralabyrinthine cells between the tegmen tympani and ossicular chain. If the ossicular chain access the supralabyrinthine recess. The geniculate ganglion and the distal labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve were exposed. After completing facial nerve decompression, the dislocated incus was replaced, or a fractured incus was reshaped to bridge the space between the malleus and the stapes. Results Pronounced ganglion geniculatum swelling was found in 15 cases of longitudinal temporal bone fracture, with greater petrosus nerves damage in 3 cases and bleeding in 5 cases. Disrupted ossicular chains were seen in 11 cases, including dislocated incus resulting in crushing of the horizontal portion of the facial nerve in 3 cases and fracture of the incus long process in 1 case. In 3 cases of transverse fractures, dehiscence on the promontory, semicircular canal or oval window was found. All cases had primary healing with no complication. At follow-ups ranging from 0.5 to 3 years (average 1.2 years), facial nerve function recovered to HB grade I in 11 cases, 11 in 5 cases and m in 2 cases. Overall hearing recovery was 33 dB. Conclusion The clinical outcomes concerning facial nerve function and hearing recovery are satisfactory via a combined subtemporal-supralabyrinthine approach to the geniculate ganglion for facial nerve decompression in temporal bone fracture patients with facial paralysis.展开更多
As most gene sequences and functional structures of internal organs in rats have been well studied,rat models arc widely used in experimental medical studies.A large number of descriptions and atlas of the rat tempora...As most gene sequences and functional structures of internal organs in rats have been well studied,rat models arc widely used in experimental medical studies.A large number of descriptions and atlas of the rat temporal bone have been published,but some detailed anatomy of its surface and inside structures remains to be studied.By focusing on some unique characteristics of the rat temporal bone,the current paper aims to provide more accurate and detailed information on rat temporal bone anatomy in an attempt to complete missing or unclear areas in the existed knowledge.We also hope this paper can lay a solid foundation for experimental rat temporal bone surgeries,and promote information exchange among colleagues,as well as providing useful guidance for novice researchers in the field of hearing research involving rats.展开更多
Objectives Langerhans’ Cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disease, which remains poorly understood and whose cellular origin remains unknown. To increase understanding of temporal bone LCH, it is necessary to study r...Objectives Langerhans’ Cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disease, which remains poorly understood and whose cellular origin remains unknown. To increase understanding of temporal bone LCH, it is necessary to study recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Methods The long term(5 to 30 years) results of 21 temporal bone LCH cases treated between 1973 and 2003 were reviewed. Surgery, radiotherapy, pharmacologic therapy or a combination of these treatments were employed in these cases. Results Eighteen patients were cured(18/21, 85%). Six patients developed residual diabetes insipidus (DI) and dwarfism (28%). Three patients died(14%). Conclusions The Alessi classification system for LCH based on the extent of disease accurately predicts prognosis and is a useful guide in selecting treatment methodologies. X-ray, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have proved useful in defining the extent of osseous and soft tissue diseases. Diagnosis of LCH is based on clinical presentations, radiographic findings and histopathological results. Surgery and radiotherapy are the main treatment modalities. Pharmacologic therapy should be used in patients with aggressive, disseminate, and refractory lesions. LCH has a predilection for children and prognosis depends on age and extent of vital organ involvement.展开更多
Objective:To provide the virtual model of the temporal bone for improving 3-dimension (3D) visualization of the inner ear. Methods: Plastination technique was used to make equidistant serial thin sections 1.0 mm in th...Objective:To provide the virtual model of the temporal bone for improving 3-dimension (3D) visualization of the inner ear. Methods: Plastination technique was used to make equidistant serial thin sections 1.0 mm in thickness. On SGI workstation, a Contours+Marching Cubes algorithm was selected to reconstruct the temporal bone and intratemporal structures in 3D, then to view the middle ear, inner ear, and intratemporal structures which imitate the scenes observed by the traditional endoscopy. Results: The virtual model of the temporal bone was successfully constructed, with all reconstructed structures being represented individually or jointly and being rotated continuously in any plane. Virtual endoscopy improved 3D visualization of the middle ear, inner ear, and intratemporal structures. Conclusion: The reconstructed model can be used for the medical students to rehearse or review the surgeries on this part and for the surgeons to develop a new approach for operation. Virtual otoscopy stands as a promising new visualization technique for elucidating the structure and relation of the middle ear, inner ear, and intratemporal structures.展开更多
Objective To explore the value of computed tomography virtual endoscopy(VE) in assessing ossicular chain disruption in temporal bone fracture and ear trauma with intact tympanum. Methods High resolution spiral compute...Objective To explore the value of computed tomography virtual endoscopy(VE) in assessing ossicular chain disruption in temporal bone fracture and ear trauma with intact tympanum. Methods High resolution spiral computerized tomography(CT) was completed in 35 cases of temporal bone fracture and 5 cases of tympanum trauma, all with intact or healed tympanum. Three-dimensional reconstruction was completed using a virtual endoscopy software. Audiological tests were conducted in all patients and evaluation of facial nerve injury in patients with facial paralysis. Patients with mild conductive deafness, ossicular chain subluxation on VE, and no facial paralysis were treated conservatively for 4-12 weeks with repeated hearing evaluation; those with facial paralysis underwent surgery if no recovery after 4- 8 weeks of conservative treatment. Patients with moderate to severe conductive hearing loss or mixed hearing loss, incus long process fracture or dislocation on VE and facial paralysis, underwent ossicular chain reconstruction and facial nerve decompression after conservative treatment for 4-8 weeks, or exploratory tympanotomy only if no facial paralysis. VE, audiological tests and facial nerve function tests were repeated in 3-6 months after surgery. Results Of the 6 cases with mild conductive hearing loss, ossicular chain subluxation and no facial paralysis, 3recovered to normal hearing spontaneously and 3 showed no significant improvement, after 4-12 weeks of conservative treatment. After conservative treatment for 4-8 weeks, 3 of the 12 cases with mild conductive deafness, ossicular chain dislocation on VE and facial paralysis recovered to normal hearing and HouseBrackmann(HB) grade I facial function from HB grade II,4 showed facial function recovery to HB grade I(n=2) or II(n=2) from HB grade III but no hearing recovery, and 5 gained no recovery and went on to receive exploratory tympanotomy and facial nerve decompression. The 11 cases with moderate to severe conductive deafness, incus long process fracture or dislocation on VE and facial paralysis all received ossicular chain reconstruction and facial nerve decompression after 4-8 weeks of conservative treatment. The 7 cases with moderate to severe conductive deafness, dislocated or fallen incus on VE but no facial paralysis received ossicular chain reconstruction after conservative treatment. The 4 cases with mixed hearing loss, dislocated or fallen incus on VE and no facial paralysis received ossicular chain repair via the intact canal wall epitympanum approach after conservative treatment. Pharmacological therapies continued postoperatively in these patients to treat sensorineural deafness. Although temporal bone CT scans displayed the fracture line and malleus/incus abnormalities, VE provided additional detailed information on dislocation of incudomalleal and incudostapedial joints, incus dislocation or fracture, separation between crus longum incudis and stapes, and incus shifting. These were all confirmed during surgery. VE results and surgery findings were 100% consistent in patients with ossicular chain disruption. Conclusion VE can provide reliable visual evidence for accurate assessment of traumatic ossicular chain disruption, timing of surgery and individualizing surgical strategies and postoperative follow-up.展开更多
<strong>Introduction:</strong> Rhabdomyosarcoma accounts for up to 60% of childhood soft tissue sarcoma, occurring mostly in the head and neck region but rarely in the ear and temporal areas. <strong>...<strong>Introduction:</strong> Rhabdomyosarcoma accounts for up to 60% of childhood soft tissue sarcoma, occurring mostly in the head and neck region but rarely in the ear and temporal areas. <strong>Case Report:</strong> A 4-year-old boy came to our hospital due to a purulent discharge, bleeding from his left ear. Also seen mass in the left ear along with facial weakness and diplopia. After histopathologic evaluation, it was diagnosed as embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Rhabdomyosarcoma should be kept in mind as a differential diagnosis in all children presenting with otitis media with mastoiditis. Biopsy should be considered who are not responding to medications and those worsening condition.展开更多
Objective: To test the feasibility of measuring fine temporal bone structures using a newly established cone-beam computed tomography(CBCT)system.Materials and methods: Six formalin-fixed human cadaver temporal bones ...Objective: To test the feasibility of measuring fine temporal bone structures using a newly established cone-beam computed tomography(CBCT)system.Materials and methods: Six formalin-fixed human cadaver temporal bones were imaged using a high-resolution CBCT system that has 900 frames and copper t aluminum filtration. Fine temporal bone structures, including those of the facial nerve canal and vestibular structures, were identified and measured.Results: The fine structures of the middle ear, including the tympanic membrane, tendon of the tensor tympani, cochleariform process of the semicanal of the tensor tympani, pyramidal eminence, footplate of the stapes, full path of the facial nerve within the temporal bone, supralabyrinthine space, semicircular canals, pathway of the subarcuate canal, and full path of the vestibular aqueduct, were clearly demonstrated. The vestibular aqueduct has a midpoint width of 0.4 ± 0.0 mm and opercular width of 0.5 ± 0.1 mm(mean ± SD). The length of the internal acoustic meatus was 10.6 ± 1.2 mm(mean ± SD), and the diameter of the internal acoustic meatus was 3.7 ± 0.3 mm(mean ± SD).Conclusion: This novel high-resolution CBCT system has potentially broad applications in the diagnosis of inner ear disease and in monitoring associated pathological changes, surgical planning, navigation for the ear surgery, and temporal bone training.展开更多
BACKGROUND Chondromyxoid fibroma(CMF) is a rare benign bone tumour of cartilaginous origin, which usually affects the metaphysis of the long bone. Involvement of the temporal bone is extremely rare. Patients with CMF ...BACKGROUND Chondromyxoid fibroma(CMF) is a rare benign bone tumour of cartilaginous origin, which usually affects the metaphysis of the long bone. Involvement of the temporal bone is extremely rare. Patients with CMF in the temporal bone can present some neurological deficits due to involvement of surrounding neural structures. CASE SUMMARY We present the first case of histopathologically proven CMF originating in the temporal bone and involving the hypoglossal canal in a 40-year-old woman. Hypoglossal nerve paralysis was identified on the cranial nerve examination. The patient underwent surgical excision and was neurologically normal except for mild left facial palsy on 5-mo follow-up examination after surgery. In the current report, the major characteristics and computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging features of the lesion are discussed. Furthermore, previous literature regarding this pathology is reviewed.CONCLUSION The current study presents the first case of temporal bone CMF involving the hypoglossal canal.展开更多
Temporal bone dissection has important role in educating and training oto and skull base surgeons.Mounting of a temporal bone laboratory is expensive.A dedicated magnifying system,such as a surgical microscope or an e...Temporal bone dissection has important role in educating and training oto and skull base surgeons.Mounting of a temporal bone laboratory is expensive.A dedicated magnifying system,such as a surgical microscope or an endoscopic equipment,represents one of the most significant costs.The aim of this study is to test and demonstrate the utility of a commercial USB as a low-cost solution to equip the laboratory with a good magnifying system and illumination.展开更多
Osteoma is a slow-growing tumor formed by mature bone tissue. In the temporal bone, intracanalicular osteomas are more frequent while extracanalicular ostemoas are rare. They very rarely occur over the mastoid region....Osteoma is a slow-growing tumor formed by mature bone tissue. In the temporal bone, intracanalicular osteomas are more frequent while extracanalicular ostemoas are rare. They very rarely occur over the mastoid region. They are treated mainly for cosmetic purposes. These are readily excised and recurrence is rare after complete excision. In this case report, we want to revisit this rare mastoid osteoma and discuss the differential diagnosis and treatment. We believe that this report will be of interest to otolaryngologists when dealing with temporal bone osteomas.展开更多
Introduction:Medication-related osteonecrosis of the temporal bone is rare and has been reported to be associated with the use of anti-resorptive and biologic agents.Here,we present the first case of tyrosine-kinase i...Introduction:Medication-related osteonecrosis of the temporal bone is rare and has been reported to be associated with the use of anti-resorptive and biologic agents.Here,we present the first case of tyrosine-kinase inhibitor-related external auditory canal(EAC)osteonecrosis as well as two cases related to anti-resorptive therapies.Methods:A retrospective case series.Results:Case one:an 84-year-old female presented with chronic otitis externa and osteonecrosis of EACs bilaterally.She had a history of osteoporosis treated with denosumab and risedronic acid.She successfully underwent left EAC reconstruction using an inferiorly-based pedicle periosteal flap while the right ear canal was managed conservatively.Case two:a 69-year-old male presented with osteonecrosis of the right EAC.He had a history of osteoporosis treated with alendronic acid and zoledronic acid.His osteonecrosis is conservatively managed with local debridement and antibiotic application.Case three:a 60-year-old male presented with osteonecrosis of the right inferior EAC.He had a history of chronic myelogenous leukemia treated with a tyrosine-kinase inhibitor,imatinib.After failing conservative therapy,he underwent right ear canal reconstruction using a periosteal vascular pedicle flap without complication and experienced complete resolution to his symptoms.Conclusion:Anti-resorptive agents and/or tyrosine kinase inhibitors may lead to dysregulation of bone remodeling and result in rare cases of temporal bone osteonecrosis.When a local debridement and antibiotic therapy fail,definitive surgical excision of necrotic bone with subsequent reconstruction of the EAC may offer patients a possible resolution in symptoms.展开更多
Hypothesis:Three-dimensional(3D)printed temporal bones are comparable to cadaveric temporal bones as a training tool for otologic surgery.Background:Cadaveric temporal bone dissection is an integral part of otology su...Hypothesis:Three-dimensional(3D)printed temporal bones are comparable to cadaveric temporal bones as a training tool for otologic surgery.Background:Cadaveric temporal bone dissection is an integral part of otology surgical training.Unfortunately,availability of cadaveric temporal bones is becoming much more limited and concern regarding chemical and biological risks persist.In this study,we examine the validity of 3D-printed temporal bone model as an alternative training tool for otologic surgery.Methods:Seventeen otolaryngology trainees participated in the study.They were asked to complete a series of otologic procedures using 3D-printed temporal bones.A semi-structured questionnaire was used to evaluate their dissection experience on the 3D-printed temporal bones.Results:Participants found that the 3D-printed temporal bones were anatomically realistic compared to cadaveric temporal bones.They found that the 3D-printed temporal bones were useful as a surgical training tool in general and also for specific otologic procedures.Overall,participants were enthusiastic about incorporation of 3D-printed temporal bones in temporal bone dissection training courses and would recommend them to other trainees.Conclusion:3D-printed temporal bone model is a viable alternative to human cadaveric temporal bones as a teaching tool for otologic surgery.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the significance of Eustachian tube(ET)angles and ET pretympanic diameter on high resolution computed tomography(HRCT)Temporal bone in patients with chronic otitis media(COM).Methods:A retrospect...Objective:To evaluate the significance of Eustachian tube(ET)angles and ET pretympanic diameter on high resolution computed tomography(HRCT)Temporal bone in patients with chronic otitis media(COM).Methods:A retrospective study was carried out at Tertiary care centre.Group A included 92 ears with COM(38 patients with bilateral COM and 16 with unilateral COM);and Group B included 108 normal ears(54 patients with bilateral normal ears).Reid plane-ET angle,Tubotympanic angle and the ET pretympanic diameter was evaluated by HRCT temporal bone,and compared in the two groups.Patients with chronic otitis media(Group A)were subdivided into Group A1(Blocked ET)and Group A2(Patent ET).The parameters were evaluated and compared in the subgroups too.Results:The mean Reid plane-ET angle and Tubotympanic angle in Group A was 25.412.57 and 148.123.43 respectively;whereas in Group B it was 27.563.62 and 145.144.34 respectively.Reid plane-ET angle was significantly less in patients with COM and Tubotympanic angle was significantly more obtuse in COM patients.ET pretympanic diameter was(5.372.10)mm in Group A and(6.472.40)mm in Group B.It was significantly less in patients with COM.A significant correlation was found between the ET patency and the two ET parameters(Reid plane-ET angle and pretympanic diameter).Conclusions:Eustachian tube angles in adults may play a significant role in the etiology of chronic otitis media.Decrease in Reid plane-ET angle and pretympanic diameter on HRCT temporal bone can be used to predict ET dysfunction and to plan the surgical management of chronic otitis media.展开更多
Background The temporal bone has the most complicated anatomic feature among the whole human body, which always challenges otolaryngologists. This study was to study three-dimensional (3D) morphology of the temporal ...Background The temporal bone has the most complicated anatomic feature among the whole human body, which always challenges otolaryngologists. This study was to study three-dimensional (3D) morphology of the temporal bone and the ear by means of a computer image processing technique, for the purpose of providing a 3D image to help in pathological, diagnostic and surgical procedures Methods Forty sets of temporal bone celloidin serial sections with reference points were prepared and the contours of selected structures and reference points were entered into a graphics programme The technique of computer-aided 3D reconstruction was applied to obtain 3D images and parameters of the temporal bones and the ears Stereo views of the ossicles (n=5), the facial nerves (n=11), the posterior tympanic sinuses (n=11), the posterior ampullary nerves (n=4), the endolymphatic ducts and sacs (n=5), and the bony and membranous labyrinth (n=1) were reconstructed Results Three-dimensional images, including the cochlea, the ossicles, the nerves, the tendons and the endolymphatic fluid system in the temporal bone, were obtained Stereo picture pairs and 3D parameters of spatial dimensions, angle and volume for these reconstructed structures were calculated The arrangement of the ossicles, spatial relationship of the bony and membranous labyrinth, the whole course of the facial nerves, the endolymphatic sac and posterior tympanic cavity were clearly observable Stereo picture pairs made the spatial relationships among the above-mentioned structures much clearer The operation of the posterior ampullary nerve transection was designed and simulated on the graphic computer based on 3D anatomic investigations Conclusion The technique of computer-aided 3D reconstruction provides a new tool to observe the morphology of the temporal bone and thus may allow design and study of new surgical approaches展开更多
基金a grant from Beijing Natural Science Foundation (7212008, 7031001)
文摘Background The Visible Human Project(VHP) initiated by the U.S. National Library of Medicine has drawn much attention and interests from around the world. The Visible Chinese Human(VCH) project has started in China. The current study aims at acquiring a feasible virtual methodology for reconstructing the temporal bone of the Chinese population, which may provide an accurate 3-D model of important temporal bone structures that can be used in teaching and patient care for medical scientists and clinicians. Methods A series of sectional images of the temporal bone were generated from section slices of a female cadaver head. On each sectional image, SOIs (structures of interest) were segmented by carefully defining their contours and filling their areas with certain gray scale values. The processed volume data were then inducted into the 3D Slicer software(developed by the Surgical Planning Lab at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the MIT AI Lab) for resegmentation and generation of a set of tagged images of the SOIs. 3D surface models of SOIs were then reconstructed from these images. Results The temporal bone and structures in the temporal bone, including the tympanic cavity, mastoid cells, sigmoid sinus and internal carotid artery, were successfully reconstructed. The orientation of and spatial relationship among these structures were easily visualized in the reconstructed surface models. Conclusion The 3D Slicer software can be used for 3- dimensional visualization of anatomic structures in the temporal bone, which will greatly facilitate the advance of knowledge and techniques critical for studying and treating disorders involving the temporal bone.
基金supported in part by the National Institutes of Health (United States of America) under Award Numbers 5T32DC013018-03 and TL1TR001116
文摘Introduction: Superior semicircular canal dehiscence(SCD) remains difficult to diagnose despite advances in high-resolution computed tomography(HRCT) imaging. We hypothesize possible associations between gross temporal bone anatomy and sub-millimeter pathology of the semicircular canals, which may supplement imaging and clinical suspicion. This pilot study investigates differences in gross temporal bone anatomic parameters between temporal bones with and without SCD.Methods: Records were reviewed for 18 patients referred to an otology clinic complaining of dizziness with normal caloric stimulation results indicative of non-vestibular findings. Eleven patients had normal temporal bone anatomy while seven had SCD. Three-dimensional reconstruction of every patient's temporal bone anatomy was created from patient-specific computational tomography images. Surface area(SA),volume(V), and SA to V ratios(SA:V) were computed across temporal bone anatomical parameters.Results: SCD temporal bones have significantly smaller V, and larger temporal bone SA. Mean(±SD) V was 21,484 ± 3,921 mm^3 in temporal bones without SCD and 16,343 ± 34,471 mm^3 for those with SCD. Their respective SA were 13,733 ± 1,603 mm^2 and 18,073 ± 3,002 mm^2.Temporal bone airspaces and lateral semicircular canals did not demonstrate significant differences where SCD was and was not present. Plots of MV_(warm)response against computed SCD temporal bone anatomic parameters(SA, V and SA:V) showed moderate to strong correlations:temporal bone SA:V(r= 0.64), temporal bone airspace V(r= 0.60), temporal bone airspace SA(r= 0.55), LSCC SA(r= 0.51), and LSCC-toTM Distance(r= 0.65).Conclusions: This analysis demonstrated that SCD is associated with decreased temporal bone volume and density. The defect in SCD does not appear to influence caloric responses.
基金supported by grants from The National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81771003 and 82071508).
文摘Temporal bone malignant tumors are characterized by atypical clinical symptoms,and easy recurrence and metastasis.They account for 0.2%of head and neck tumors,and the most common pathological type is squamous cell carcinoma.Patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the temporal bone are often at advanced stages when diagnosed,and lose the chance for surgery.Neoadjuvant immunotherapy has recently been approved as the first-line treatment for refractory recurrent/metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.However,it remains to be determined whether neoadjuvant immunotherapy can be used as the first-line treatment for temporal bone squamous cell carcinoma to reduce the tumor stage before surgery,or as a palliative treatment for patients with unresectable advanced stage carcinoma.The present study reviews the development of immunotherapy and its clinical application in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma,summarizes the treatment of temporal bone squamous cell carcinoma,and prospects the neoadjuvant immunotherapy as the first-line treatment for temporal bone squamous cell carcinoma.
文摘Preparation of the temporal bone for light microscopy is an important step in histological studies of the inner ear. Due to the complexity of structures of the inner ear, it is difficult to measure or compare structures of interest without a commonly accepted standardized measure of temporal bone sections. Therefore, standardization of temporal bone sections is very important for histological assessment of sensory hair cells and peripheral ganglion neurons in the cochlear and vestibular systems. The standardized temporal bone sectioning is oriented to a plane parallel to the outer and internal auditory canals. Sections are collected from the epitympanum to the hypotympanum to reveal layers in the order of the crista ampullaris of the superior and lateral semicircular canals, macula utriculi and macula sacculi, superior vestibular ganglion neurons, macula of saccule and inferior vestibular ganglion neurons, cochlear modiolus, endolymphatic duct and endolymphatic sac, and finally the crista ampullaris of the posterior semicircular canal. Moreover, technical details of preparing for temporal bone sectioning including fixation, decalcification, whole temporal bone staining, embedding penetration, and embedding orientation are also discussed.
文摘Metastasis of lung cancer to the temporal bone is a very rare disease and subjective tinnitus as the present-ing symptom in these patients is even rarer. Here we report a case in which a 42-year-old male presented with subjective tinnitus of three months, with no pulmonary disease symptoms. Pure tone audiometry indi-cated moderate conductive deafness in left ear with an air-bone gap of 21.3 dB. HRCT temporal bone scan-ning indicated high-density shadows in the left epitympanic cavity, sinus tympani and mastoid cavity. Chron-ic otitis media with cholesteatoma was suspected and surgical treatment recommended. However, preopera-tive chest x-ray revealed high-density millet lesions scattered widely in both lungs. HRCT lung scanning confirmed the lungs lesions and indicated lung cancer. In order to determine correlations between the tempo-ral bone and pulmonary lesions, a CT-guided trans-mastoid aspiration biopsy and immunohistochemical study were conducted, which confirmed that the temporal bone lesion was metastatic from the lungs. The pa-tient was given a series of chemotherapy immediately and his tinnitus significantly improved after three months of treatment, with full recovery of his hearing and complete resolution of shadows in the mastoid cavity. Unfortunately, he subsequently developed multiple bone metastases in the 9th month and cerebral metastasis in the 18th month. Multiple organ failure resulted in death in 2.5 years.
文摘Objective To investigate the clinical outcomes of facial never decompression via a combined subtemporal-su- pralabyrinthine approach to geniculate ganglion for management of facial paralysis in temporal bone fracture. Methods Eighteen patients with unilateral facial paresis due to temporal bone fracture were treated between March 2003 and March 2011. Facial function was House-Braekmann(HB) grade m in 6 patients, HB grade V in 9 patients and HB grade VI in 3 patients. The preoperative mean air conduction threshold was 52 dB HL for the 15 cases with longitudinal temporal bone fracture and showed severe sensorineural heating loss in the 3 cases with transverse temporal bone fracture. Fracture lines were detected in 15 cases on temporal bone axial CT scans and ossicular disruption was determined in 11 cases by virtual CT endoscopy. The geniculate ganglion or the tympanic mastoid segment of the facial nerve showed an irregular morphology on curved planar reformation images of the facial nerve canal. After an intact canal wall mastoi- do-epitympanectomy, the ossicular chain recess was opened by drilling through the was disrupted, the incus was removed to damage was evaluated. If the ossicular chain was intact, the supralabyrinthine cells between the tegmen tympani and ossicular chain. If the ossicular chain access the supralabyrinthine recess. The geniculate ganglion and the distal labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve were exposed. After completing facial nerve decompression, the dislocated incus was replaced, or a fractured incus was reshaped to bridge the space between the malleus and the stapes. Results Pronounced ganglion geniculatum swelling was found in 15 cases of longitudinal temporal bone fracture, with greater petrosus nerves damage in 3 cases and bleeding in 5 cases. Disrupted ossicular chains were seen in 11 cases, including dislocated incus resulting in crushing of the horizontal portion of the facial nerve in 3 cases and fracture of the incus long process in 1 case. In 3 cases of transverse fractures, dehiscence on the promontory, semicircular canal or oval window was found. All cases had primary healing with no complication. At follow-ups ranging from 0.5 to 3 years (average 1.2 years), facial nerve function recovered to HB grade I in 11 cases, 11 in 5 cases and m in 2 cases. Overall hearing recovery was 33 dB. Conclusion The clinical outcomes concerning facial nerve function and hearing recovery are satisfactory via a combined subtemporal-supralabyrinthine approach to the geniculate ganglion for facial nerve decompression in temporal bone fracture patients with facial paralysis.
基金supported in part by a grant from Guangdong Provincial Science and Technology Project 2013B022000046
文摘As most gene sequences and functional structures of internal organs in rats have been well studied,rat models arc widely used in experimental medical studies.A large number of descriptions and atlas of the rat temporal bone have been published,but some detailed anatomy of its surface and inside structures remains to be studied.By focusing on some unique characteristics of the rat temporal bone,the current paper aims to provide more accurate and detailed information on rat temporal bone anatomy in an attempt to complete missing or unclear areas in the existed knowledge.We also hope this paper can lay a solid foundation for experimental rat temporal bone surgeries,and promote information exchange among colleagues,as well as providing useful guidance for novice researchers in the field of hearing research involving rats.
文摘Objectives Langerhans’ Cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disease, which remains poorly understood and whose cellular origin remains unknown. To increase understanding of temporal bone LCH, it is necessary to study recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Methods The long term(5 to 30 years) results of 21 temporal bone LCH cases treated between 1973 and 2003 were reviewed. Surgery, radiotherapy, pharmacologic therapy or a combination of these treatments were employed in these cases. Results Eighteen patients were cured(18/21, 85%). Six patients developed residual diabetes insipidus (DI) and dwarfism (28%). Three patients died(14%). Conclusions The Alessi classification system for LCH based on the extent of disease accurately predicts prognosis and is a useful guide in selecting treatment methodologies. X-ray, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have proved useful in defining the extent of osseous and soft tissue diseases. Diagnosis of LCH is based on clinical presentations, radiographic findings and histopathological results. Surgery and radiotherapy are the main treatment modalities. Pharmacologic therapy should be used in patients with aggressive, disseminate, and refractory lesions. LCH has a predilection for children and prognosis depends on age and extent of vital organ involvement.
基金the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars (NO. 39925022)
文摘Objective:To provide the virtual model of the temporal bone for improving 3-dimension (3D) visualization of the inner ear. Methods: Plastination technique was used to make equidistant serial thin sections 1.0 mm in thickness. On SGI workstation, a Contours+Marching Cubes algorithm was selected to reconstruct the temporal bone and intratemporal structures in 3D, then to view the middle ear, inner ear, and intratemporal structures which imitate the scenes observed by the traditional endoscopy. Results: The virtual model of the temporal bone was successfully constructed, with all reconstructed structures being represented individually or jointly and being rotated continuously in any plane. Virtual endoscopy improved 3D visualization of the middle ear, inner ear, and intratemporal structures. Conclusion: The reconstructed model can be used for the medical students to rehearse or review the surgeries on this part and for the surgeons to develop a new approach for operation. Virtual otoscopy stands as a promising new visualization technique for elucidating the structure and relation of the middle ear, inner ear, and intratemporal structures.
基金This study was supported by Medical Research Fund Projects of Guangdong Province,Jinan University Scientific Research Opening Stock Project
文摘Objective To explore the value of computed tomography virtual endoscopy(VE) in assessing ossicular chain disruption in temporal bone fracture and ear trauma with intact tympanum. Methods High resolution spiral computerized tomography(CT) was completed in 35 cases of temporal bone fracture and 5 cases of tympanum trauma, all with intact or healed tympanum. Three-dimensional reconstruction was completed using a virtual endoscopy software. Audiological tests were conducted in all patients and evaluation of facial nerve injury in patients with facial paralysis. Patients with mild conductive deafness, ossicular chain subluxation on VE, and no facial paralysis were treated conservatively for 4-12 weeks with repeated hearing evaluation; those with facial paralysis underwent surgery if no recovery after 4- 8 weeks of conservative treatment. Patients with moderate to severe conductive hearing loss or mixed hearing loss, incus long process fracture or dislocation on VE and facial paralysis, underwent ossicular chain reconstruction and facial nerve decompression after conservative treatment for 4-8 weeks, or exploratory tympanotomy only if no facial paralysis. VE, audiological tests and facial nerve function tests were repeated in 3-6 months after surgery. Results Of the 6 cases with mild conductive hearing loss, ossicular chain subluxation and no facial paralysis, 3recovered to normal hearing spontaneously and 3 showed no significant improvement, after 4-12 weeks of conservative treatment. After conservative treatment for 4-8 weeks, 3 of the 12 cases with mild conductive deafness, ossicular chain dislocation on VE and facial paralysis recovered to normal hearing and HouseBrackmann(HB) grade I facial function from HB grade II,4 showed facial function recovery to HB grade I(n=2) or II(n=2) from HB grade III but no hearing recovery, and 5 gained no recovery and went on to receive exploratory tympanotomy and facial nerve decompression. The 11 cases with moderate to severe conductive deafness, incus long process fracture or dislocation on VE and facial paralysis all received ossicular chain reconstruction and facial nerve decompression after 4-8 weeks of conservative treatment. The 7 cases with moderate to severe conductive deafness, dislocated or fallen incus on VE but no facial paralysis received ossicular chain reconstruction after conservative treatment. The 4 cases with mixed hearing loss, dislocated or fallen incus on VE and no facial paralysis received ossicular chain repair via the intact canal wall epitympanum approach after conservative treatment. Pharmacological therapies continued postoperatively in these patients to treat sensorineural deafness. Although temporal bone CT scans displayed the fracture line and malleus/incus abnormalities, VE provided additional detailed information on dislocation of incudomalleal and incudostapedial joints, incus dislocation or fracture, separation between crus longum incudis and stapes, and incus shifting. These were all confirmed during surgery. VE results and surgery findings were 100% consistent in patients with ossicular chain disruption. Conclusion VE can provide reliable visual evidence for accurate assessment of traumatic ossicular chain disruption, timing of surgery and individualizing surgical strategies and postoperative follow-up.
文摘<strong>Introduction:</strong> Rhabdomyosarcoma accounts for up to 60% of childhood soft tissue sarcoma, occurring mostly in the head and neck region but rarely in the ear and temporal areas. <strong>Case Report:</strong> A 4-year-old boy came to our hospital due to a purulent discharge, bleeding from his left ear. Also seen mass in the left ear along with facial weakness and diplopia. After histopathologic evaluation, it was diagnosed as embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Rhabdomyosarcoma should be kept in mind as a differential diagnosis in all children presenting with otitis media with mastoiditis. Biopsy should be considered who are not responding to medications and those worsening condition.
基金supported by EC FP7 collaborative project NANOCI(grant agreement number:281056)National Natural Science Foundation of China(81170914/H1304)
文摘Objective: To test the feasibility of measuring fine temporal bone structures using a newly established cone-beam computed tomography(CBCT)system.Materials and methods: Six formalin-fixed human cadaver temporal bones were imaged using a high-resolution CBCT system that has 900 frames and copper t aluminum filtration. Fine temporal bone structures, including those of the facial nerve canal and vestibular structures, were identified and measured.Results: The fine structures of the middle ear, including the tympanic membrane, tendon of the tensor tympani, cochleariform process of the semicanal of the tensor tympani, pyramidal eminence, footplate of the stapes, full path of the facial nerve within the temporal bone, supralabyrinthine space, semicircular canals, pathway of the subarcuate canal, and full path of the vestibular aqueduct, were clearly demonstrated. The vestibular aqueduct has a midpoint width of 0.4 ± 0.0 mm and opercular width of 0.5 ± 0.1 mm(mean ± SD). The length of the internal acoustic meatus was 10.6 ± 1.2 mm(mean ± SD), and the diameter of the internal acoustic meatus was 3.7 ± 0.3 mm(mean ± SD).Conclusion: This novel high-resolution CBCT system has potentially broad applications in the diagnosis of inner ear disease and in monitoring associated pathological changes, surgical planning, navigation for the ear surgery, and temporal bone training.
文摘BACKGROUND Chondromyxoid fibroma(CMF) is a rare benign bone tumour of cartilaginous origin, which usually affects the metaphysis of the long bone. Involvement of the temporal bone is extremely rare. Patients with CMF in the temporal bone can present some neurological deficits due to involvement of surrounding neural structures. CASE SUMMARY We present the first case of histopathologically proven CMF originating in the temporal bone and involving the hypoglossal canal in a 40-year-old woman. Hypoglossal nerve paralysis was identified on the cranial nerve examination. The patient underwent surgical excision and was neurologically normal except for mild left facial palsy on 5-mo follow-up examination after surgery. In the current report, the major characteristics and computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging features of the lesion are discussed. Furthermore, previous literature regarding this pathology is reviewed.CONCLUSION The current study presents the first case of temporal bone CMF involving the hypoglossal canal.
文摘Temporal bone dissection has important role in educating and training oto and skull base surgeons.Mounting of a temporal bone laboratory is expensive.A dedicated magnifying system,such as a surgical microscope or an endoscopic equipment,represents one of the most significant costs.The aim of this study is to test and demonstrate the utility of a commercial USB as a low-cost solution to equip the laboratory with a good magnifying system and illumination.
文摘Osteoma is a slow-growing tumor formed by mature bone tissue. In the temporal bone, intracanalicular osteomas are more frequent while extracanalicular ostemoas are rare. They very rarely occur over the mastoid region. They are treated mainly for cosmetic purposes. These are readily excised and recurrence is rare after complete excision. In this case report, we want to revisit this rare mastoid osteoma and discuss the differential diagnosis and treatment. We believe that this report will be of interest to otolaryngologists when dealing with temporal bone osteomas.
文摘Introduction:Medication-related osteonecrosis of the temporal bone is rare and has been reported to be associated with the use of anti-resorptive and biologic agents.Here,we present the first case of tyrosine-kinase inhibitor-related external auditory canal(EAC)osteonecrosis as well as two cases related to anti-resorptive therapies.Methods:A retrospective case series.Results:Case one:an 84-year-old female presented with chronic otitis externa and osteonecrosis of EACs bilaterally.She had a history of osteoporosis treated with denosumab and risedronic acid.She successfully underwent left EAC reconstruction using an inferiorly-based pedicle periosteal flap while the right ear canal was managed conservatively.Case two:a 69-year-old male presented with osteonecrosis of the right EAC.He had a history of osteoporosis treated with alendronic acid and zoledronic acid.His osteonecrosis is conservatively managed with local debridement and antibiotic application.Case three:a 60-year-old male presented with osteonecrosis of the right inferior EAC.He had a history of chronic myelogenous leukemia treated with a tyrosine-kinase inhibitor,imatinib.After failing conservative therapy,he underwent right ear canal reconstruction using a periosteal vascular pedicle flap without complication and experienced complete resolution to his symptoms.Conclusion:Anti-resorptive agents and/or tyrosine kinase inhibitors may lead to dysregulation of bone remodeling and result in rare cases of temporal bone osteonecrosis.When a local debridement and antibiotic therapy fail,definitive surgical excision of necrotic bone with subsequent reconstruction of the EAC may offer patients a possible resolution in symptoms.
文摘Hypothesis:Three-dimensional(3D)printed temporal bones are comparable to cadaveric temporal bones as a training tool for otologic surgery.Background:Cadaveric temporal bone dissection is an integral part of otology surgical training.Unfortunately,availability of cadaveric temporal bones is becoming much more limited and concern regarding chemical and biological risks persist.In this study,we examine the validity of 3D-printed temporal bone model as an alternative training tool for otologic surgery.Methods:Seventeen otolaryngology trainees participated in the study.They were asked to complete a series of otologic procedures using 3D-printed temporal bones.A semi-structured questionnaire was used to evaluate their dissection experience on the 3D-printed temporal bones.Results:Participants found that the 3D-printed temporal bones were anatomically realistic compared to cadaveric temporal bones.They found that the 3D-printed temporal bones were useful as a surgical training tool in general and also for specific otologic procedures.Overall,participants were enthusiastic about incorporation of 3D-printed temporal bones in temporal bone dissection training courses and would recommend them to other trainees.Conclusion:3D-printed temporal bone model is a viable alternative to human cadaveric temporal bones as a teaching tool for otologic surgery.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the significance of Eustachian tube(ET)angles and ET pretympanic diameter on high resolution computed tomography(HRCT)Temporal bone in patients with chronic otitis media(COM).Methods:A retrospective study was carried out at Tertiary care centre.Group A included 92 ears with COM(38 patients with bilateral COM and 16 with unilateral COM);and Group B included 108 normal ears(54 patients with bilateral normal ears).Reid plane-ET angle,Tubotympanic angle and the ET pretympanic diameter was evaluated by HRCT temporal bone,and compared in the two groups.Patients with chronic otitis media(Group A)were subdivided into Group A1(Blocked ET)and Group A2(Patent ET).The parameters were evaluated and compared in the subgroups too.Results:The mean Reid plane-ET angle and Tubotympanic angle in Group A was 25.412.57 and 148.123.43 respectively;whereas in Group B it was 27.563.62 and 145.144.34 respectively.Reid plane-ET angle was significantly less in patients with COM and Tubotympanic angle was significantly more obtuse in COM patients.ET pretympanic diameter was(5.372.10)mm in Group A and(6.472.40)mm in Group B.It was significantly less in patients with COM.A significant correlation was found between the ET patency and the two ET parameters(Reid plane-ET angle and pretympanic diameter).Conclusions:Eustachian tube angles in adults may play a significant role in the etiology of chronic otitis media.Decrease in Reid plane-ET angle and pretympanic diameter on HRCT temporal bone can be used to predict ET dysfunction and to plan the surgical management of chronic otitis media.
文摘Background The temporal bone has the most complicated anatomic feature among the whole human body, which always challenges otolaryngologists. This study was to study three-dimensional (3D) morphology of the temporal bone and the ear by means of a computer image processing technique, for the purpose of providing a 3D image to help in pathological, diagnostic and surgical procedures Methods Forty sets of temporal bone celloidin serial sections with reference points were prepared and the contours of selected structures and reference points were entered into a graphics programme The technique of computer-aided 3D reconstruction was applied to obtain 3D images and parameters of the temporal bones and the ears Stereo views of the ossicles (n=5), the facial nerves (n=11), the posterior tympanic sinuses (n=11), the posterior ampullary nerves (n=4), the endolymphatic ducts and sacs (n=5), and the bony and membranous labyrinth (n=1) were reconstructed Results Three-dimensional images, including the cochlea, the ossicles, the nerves, the tendons and the endolymphatic fluid system in the temporal bone, were obtained Stereo picture pairs and 3D parameters of spatial dimensions, angle and volume for these reconstructed structures were calculated The arrangement of the ossicles, spatial relationship of the bony and membranous labyrinth, the whole course of the facial nerves, the endolymphatic sac and posterior tympanic cavity were clearly observable Stereo picture pairs made the spatial relationships among the above-mentioned structures much clearer The operation of the posterior ampullary nerve transection was designed and simulated on the graphic computer based on 3D anatomic investigations Conclusion The technique of computer-aided 3D reconstruction provides a new tool to observe the morphology of the temporal bone and thus may allow design and study of new surgical approaches