A new methodology based for evaluation of large vestibular aqueduct in CT and MRI images

Aim Develop a new methodology for evaluation of large vestibular aqueduct in CT and MRI images.

Methods Subjects diagnosed with large vestibular aqueduct syndrome or large endolymphatic sac anomalies were analysed retrospectively .223 CT and 112 MRI images were available. Multiplanar oblique reconstructions along the course of the vestibular aqueduct were performed. In the CT and MRI images the following measurements were performed: 1. Opening measurement - maximum perpendicular width of the opening of the vestibular aqueduct. 2. The length of the aqueduct – drawing the line from the medial opercular edge to the anterior wall of the opening of the aqueduct. 3. External aperture measurement – line crossing the medial opercular edge and being orthogonal to the previously explained measurement. Moreover, the maximum contact diameter of the endolymphatic sac and dura mater on axial images was measured. The volume of endolymphatic sac was also measured. Other data like age, clinical course were collected. Results :The measurements in MRI showed significant correlation with measurements in CT. The higher diameter of CT Opening and CT Operculum, the higher probability of deafness.

Conclusions The new methodology could become a valuable tool to evaluate the heterogenous pathology of large ventricular aqueduct. The innovation in our method – measurement focuses on the opening of the vestibular aqueduct and maximum contact diameter of the endolymphatic sac and dura mater.

Publication History

Article published online:
24 May 2022