Tomography of the Normal Temporal Bone

Tomography of the temporal bone, with sectional radiography at various levels down to 1 mm. in depth, has placed a new diagnostic aid at the disposal of modern otology. The method permits a study of structures as delicate as the ossicles in the tympanic cavity and the course of the facial canal. In addition, pathological changes in the antrum and the atticus can be shown at a very early stage, which permits a more certain indication of treatment and more detailed planning before operation on the ear. The latter condition is of particular importance in reconstructive ear surgery. In ordinary x-ray examinations, projections are used which experience has shown can expose the pathological processes in chronic ear diseases, i.e., projections which can lay open the atticus-aditus-antrum region, often called the "key area." By use of projections such as Schüller, Stenver, Runström, Chaussé, etc., larger or smaller parts of the "key