Anatomy and function of the temporal bones
The temporal bones, located as the name suggests in the temporal region, are even, irregular structures that connect to the occipital bone. They protect and support the brain, cushion the movements of the jaw during chewing, and provide support for the throat, larynx and organs located in the neck. Equally importantly, the temporal bones house the auditory apparatus, containing the auditory ossicles and also the vagus, which is extremely important for maintaining correct body position.
A CT scan of the temporal bone pyramids (or simply the temporal bones or temples) usually focuses on the auditory organ and its pathologies. Ossification or calcification in the region of the auditory ossicles is a common suspicion with which a patient is referred for a CT scan. The examination is extremely accurate (known as HRCT – high resolution computed tomography), as we use so-called submillimeter layers to image the delicate structures of this area of the body, perfectly visualizing potential diseases.
In addition to the ailments indicated above, patients with the following indications are referred for temporal bone pyramid tomography:
- Assessment of the structure of the middle and inner ear – the ossicles, cochlea, semicircular canals, and internal and external ear canals,
- assessment of nipple cell airiness,
- Diagnosis of congenital anomalies,
- Assessment of post-traumatic changes, hearing loss or headaches,
- Diagnostics of inflammatory processes,
- Diagnostics of oncological processes,
Preparation for CT examination of the temporal bone pyramids
In the vast majority of cases, a CT scan of the temporal bone pyramids does not require the administration of a contrast agent, is quick and completely painless. It is not necessary to be fasting or have creatinine and eGFR levels determined when performing this test. It is necessary, as for any CT scan and examination with ionizing radiation, to bring a current referral for a CT hand examination.