Postoperative MR imaging features after superior semicircular canal plugging in Minor syndrome

Abstract

Purpose: To report the postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features after superior semicircular canal plugging in patients with Minor syndrome.

Materials and methods: The MRI examinations with 3D T2-weighted SPACE sequence of 12 patients with superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome (SCDS) were retrospectively assessed. Two radiologists independently evaluated the presence of a filling defect of the superior semicircular canal above the superior ampulla and the common crus using an oblique plane parallel to the superior semicircular canal (Pöschl's plane).

Results: Postoperative MRI showed a filling defect above the ampulla of the superior semicircular canal and the common crus in 8/12 patients (67%). Three patients (3/12; 25%) had a filling defect involving also the superior ampulla that caused postoperative labyrinthitis with labyrinthine enhancement on MRI in 2 patients. One patient (1/12; 8%) had incomplete plugging of superior semicircular canal with abnormal functional tests and remaining symptoms.

Conclusion: Postoperative MRI shows a normal plugging aspect of the superior semicircular canal in 67% of patients. MRI can reveal complications that may have therapeutic implications.

Keywords: Inner ear; Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); Minor syndrome; Superior semicircular canal dehiscence; Superior semicircular canal plugging.