Cochlear measurement in computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging data sets by the Otoplan measurement tool: a retrospective comparative study

Abstract

Background: Using Otoplan software, it is possible to measure the cochlea before cochlear implant surgery. Until now, computed tomography (CT) of the cochlea has been necessary for this purpose. The aim of this study was to find out whether measuring the cochlea with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using Otoplan is possible with the same accuracy.

Methods: The cochlea of 44 patients of the local cochlear implant centre was measured by Otoplan using high-resolution CT-bone and MRI images, and the determined lengths were compared.

Results: No significant difference was found between the cochlear lengths measured, regardless of whether the length measurement was based on a CT or an MRI data set.

Conclusion: For the determination of cochlear length prior to cochlear implant surgery, MRI images are just as suitable as CT images, therefore CT is not mandatory for length measurement by Otoplan, which could reduce the patient's radiation exposure.

Keywords: Cochlear implants; cochlear implantation; hearing loss; inner ear; sensorineural hearing loss.