INTRODUCTION: Until now, anatomic descriptions of the epitympanic diaphragm and Prussak's space have been performed using a microscope. The aim of this study is to thoroughly describe and review the epitympanic diaphragm and the anatomy of Prussak's space from an endoscopic point of view. STUDY DESIGN: Cadaver dissection study. SETTING: Tertiary referral university center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The anatomy of four temporal bones dissected using an endoscope was studied. The most important findings were noted and described. RESULTS: Endoscopic cadaveric dissection of the middle ear allows a very good visualization of the epitympanic diaphragm, Prussak's space and middle ear anatomy in general. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic exploration and thorough knowledge of the complex fold anatomy may improve 'functional' interventions in middle ear inflammatory pathology during middle ear surgery, particularly in the case of selective dysventilation.
INTRODUCTION: Until now, anatomic descriptions of the epitympanic diaphragm and Prussak's space have been performed using a microscope. The aim of this study is to thoroughly describe and review the epitympanic diaphragm and the anatomy of Prussak's space from an endoscopic point of view. STUDY DESIGN: Cadaver dissection study. SETTING: Tertiary referral university center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The anatomy of four temporal bones dissected using an endoscope was studied. The most important findings were noted and described. RESULTS: Endoscopic cadaveric dissection of the middle ear allows a very good visualization of the epitympanic diaphragm, Prussak's space and middle ear anatomy in general. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic exploration and thorough knowledge of the complex fold anatomy may improve 'functional' interventions in middle ear inflammatory pathology during middle ear surgery, particularly in the case of selective dysventilation.
Authors: T Morimitsu; T Nagai; M Nagai; M Ide; K Makino; T Tono; Y Adachi; F Kasano; M Fukiyama; A Hayashi Journal: Auris Nasus Larynx Date: 1989 Impact factor: 1.863