High resolution computed tomography of the osseous external auditory canal: 1. Normal anatomy.

This study of 34 normal ears was conducted in order to define more precisely the normal computed tomographic (CT) anatomy of the osseous external auditory canal. Great variability was found in canal configuration and its relationship to the temporal squama. The understanding of normal CT appearance of the various fissures along the anterior wall of the external canal is important to avoid mistaking fissures for fractures.