OBJECTIVE: To study the use of three-dimensional (3D) rendering of T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images into 3D models of the inner ear in the preoperative assessment for cochlear implantation. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective case review of cochlear implant candidates undergoing preoperative imaging studies to determine their suitability for surgical implantation. SETTING: A tertiary referral center for the northwest area of England with an established 10-year-old program in cochlear implantation. PATIENTS: Selected adult and pediatric patients referred for cochlear implant assessment from 1996 to 1998, who underwent computerized tomography (CT) and MRI studies. INTERVENTION: Diagnostic imaging modality to assess the structure and patency of the inner ear. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: To see how detailed anatomic information provided by these 3D models influenced surgical decisions. RESULTS: Four case studies (with their 3D models) are presented to illustrate different points of interest. CONCLUSION: These 3D models provide the implanting surgeon with precise, detailed, and easily interpretable information about the cochlea, which help to guide surgical implantation, or in certain cases, to decide against attempting surgery in the presence of unfavorable anatomic factors.
OBJECTIVE: To study the use of three-dimensional (3D) rendering of T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images into 3D models of the inner ear in the preoperative assessment for cochlear implantation. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective case review of cochlear implant candidates undergoing preoperative imaging studies to determine their suitability for surgical implantation. SETTING: A tertiary referral center for the northwest area of England with an established 10-year-old program in cochlear implantation. PATIENTS: Selected adult and pediatric patients referred for cochlear implant assessment from 1996 to 1998, who underwent computerized tomography (CT) and MRI studies. INTERVENTION: Diagnostic imaging modality to assess the structure and patency of the inner ear. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: To see how detailed anatomic information provided by these 3D models influenced surgical decisions. RESULTS: Four case studies (with their 3D models) are presented to illustrate different points of interest. CONCLUSION: These 3D models provide the implanting surgeon with precise, detailed, and easily interpretable information about the cochlea, which help to guide surgical implantation, or in certain cases, to decide against attempting surgery in the presence of unfavorable anatomic factors.
Authors: Fernando Pochini Sobrinho; Paulo Roberto Lazarini; Hea Jung Yoo; Luiz de Abreu Júnior; Altino de Sá Meira Journal: Braz J Otorhinolaryngol Date: 2009 Mar-Apr