Multiplanar reconstructions with spiral CT in the study of the middle ear

We point out the interest of computed tomographic reconstructions from spir al acquisition - particularly sagittal reconstructions - in the study of mi ddle ear anatomy and adjacent structures : the facial canal and the chorda tympani. The reference reconstructions are axial and coronal reconstruction s. So, we demonstrate the superiority of sagittal reconstructions for the v isualization of the lateral process of the malleus, the body and long proce ss of the incus, the third portion of the facial canal, and the chorda tymp ani. For the other structures of the middle ear and the other parts of the facial canal, these sagittal reconstructions are complementary. Besides, th e best type of reconstruction to visualize the stapes and the vestibular wi ndow is the axial plane parallel to the stapes axis.