Role of High-Resolution Computed Tomography Temporal Bone in Evaluating Complications of Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the middle ear associated with persistent ear discharge and hearing impairment, with potential to cause serious intratemporal and intracranial complications. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the temporal bone provides excellent visualization of bony anatomy and disease extent, making it an essential imaging modality for preoperative assessment.

Aim & Objective: This study evaluated the role of HRCT in detecting complications of CSOM and assessing temporal bone involvement.

Material & Methods: Sixty clinically diagnosed patients with active squamous CSOM who fulfilled the inclusion criteria underwent HRCT temporal bone examination using a Siemens SOMATOM Emotion 6 multidetector CT scanner. Imaging findings were correlated with clinical presentation. Data were analyzed using SPSS software with descriptive and inferential statistics. Ethical committee approval and informed consent were obtained from all participants.

Results: Most patients were 21–30 years old (26%), with a nearly equal gender distribution (52% males and 48% females). Ear discharge (94%) and hearing loss (88%) were the predominant presenting symptoms. HRCT identified mastoiditis (42%) as the most frequent complication, followed by scutum erosion (40%), tegmen plate erosion (30%), facial canal erosion (24%), sinus plate erosion (18%), ossicular chain erosion (14%), external auditory canal erosion (10%), skull base erosion (10%), semicircular canal erosion (4%). No temporal lobe abscess was detected. HRCT accurately delineated disease extent and associated bony complications, facilitating comprehensive preoperative evaluation.

Conclusion: HRCT of the temporal bone is an indispensable imaging modality for evaluating complications of CSOM. It enables early detection of bony erosions, accurately defines disease extent, provides valuable information for surgical planning, thereby reducing operative complications and improving patient outcomes. Routine preoperative HRCT should be considered in patients with complicated or suspected squamosal CSOM.

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