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Fourth International Symposium and Workshops: Objective Measures in Cochlear Implants

Medical University of Hannover

01.06. bis 04.06.2005, Hannover

Radiological examinations of the cochlear with the Digital Volume Tomography

Meeting Abstract

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  • corresponding author C. Dalchow - Universitätsklinikum, Marburg
  • S. Bien - Universitätsklinikum, Marburg
  • J.A. Werner - Universitätsklinikum, Marburg

Medical University of Hannover, Department of Otolaryngology. Fourth International Symposium and Workshops: Objective Measures in Cochlear Implants. Hannover, 01.-04.06.2005. Düsseldorf, Köln: German Medical Science; 2005. Doc05omci060

The electronic version of this article is the complete one and can be found online at: http://www.egms.de/en/meetings/omci2005/05omci060.shtml

Published: May 31, 2005

© 2005 Dalchow et al.
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Outline

Text

Introduction

The digital volume tomography (DVT) technique is an extension of panoramic tomography. With this diagnostic approach, characterized by high resolution, a minimal section thickness of 0.125 mm, and three-dimensional display, small pathological processes can be well visualized.

Materials and Methods

Seven consecutive patients were examined prior to surgery with DVT (Accu-I-tomo, Morita, Japan) to evaluate the lateral skull base for cochlear implantation. Aside from the initial examination, radiological control examinations were carried out post insertion of cochlear implants.

Results

With high resolution it was possible to define small bony structures and position of the electrode array with high precision. Furthermore, the examination proved that DVT is useful in assessing the normal position of a cochlear implant electrode array.

Conclusions

Digital volume tomography (DVT) expands the application of diagnostic possibilities in the lateral skull base. Therefore we believe improved pre-op diagnosis can be achieved along with more accurate planning of the surgical procedure. DVT delivers a small radiation dose and a high resolution coupled with a lower purchase price for the equipment.