Classification and Volumetric Analysis of Temporal Bone Pneumatization Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Objective: This study performed volumetric analysis and classified different repeated patterns of temporal bone pneumatization in adults using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans.

Study Design: A total of 155 temporal bones were retrospectively evaluated from 78 patients with no radiographic evidence of pathology. Two reference structures were used to classify temporal bone pneumatization into 3 groups. Volumetric analysis of the pneumatization was performed using a window thresholding procedure on multiplanar CBCT images. Correlation between direct communication of peritubal cells with the eustachian tube and the degree of pneumatization was also assessed.

Results: Using 2 reference structures, pneumatization pattern in the temporal bone can be classified into 3 groups. Statistically significant differences were present in their mean volumes between 3 groups. Statistically significant correlation was found between degree of pneumatization and presence of peritubal cells associated with ET.

Conclusions: This study showed that CBCT can be effectively used for imaging temporal bone air cavities and for volumetric assessment.