ABSTRACT
Objective To apply three-dimensional(3D) printing techniques to the clinical anatomy teaching of otolar-yngology. Methods We reconstructed the three-dimensional models of temporal bones and paranasal sinuses based on CT scan data,and divided them into sub-models according to several interested planes on CT scan. Sub-models were printed with 3D printer.The CT images of interested planes were printed by normal printer and pasted to the appropri-ate sub-models. We also checked the accuracy of the anatomy models. Results We successfully made the digital and 3D printing models of temporal bones and paranasal sinuses. The CT scan images were compounded to the models. The key anatomy structures outside and inside of the temporal bone and paranasal sinuses can be shown clearly and exactly on the models. Conclusions The 3D printing models help the medical students to understand and master the clinical anatomy and radiology knowledge of otolaryngology as a supplement for traditional teaching methods.
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: The clinical utility of brain computed tomography (CT) in detecting temporal bone fracture is not well established. We performed this study to determine the utility of brain computed tomography (CT) in detecting fractures of the temporal bones in correlation with fracture patterns. We used high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) as the gold standard for diagnosing temporal bone fracture and its pattern. METHODS: From January 2007 to December 2009, patients who underwent both brain CT and HRCT within 10 days of head trauma were investigated. Among them, 58 cases of temporal bone fracture confirmed by HRCT were finally included. Fracture patterns (transverse or non-transverse, otic capsule sparing or otic capsule violating) were determined by HRCT. Brain CT findings in correlation with fracture patterns were analyzed. RESULTS: Among 58 confirmed cases of temporal bone fracture by HRCT, 14 cases (24.1%) were not detected by brain CT. Brain CT showed a significantly lower ability to detect temporal bone fracture with transverse component than without transverse component (p=0.020). Moreover, brain CT showed lower ability to detect otic capsule violating pattern than otic capsule sparing pattern (p=0.015). Among the 14 cases of temporal bone fracture that were not detected by brain CT, 4 cases lacked any objective physical findings (facial palsy, hemotympanum, external auditory canal bleeding) suggesting fractures of the temporal bones. CONCLUSION: Brain CT showed poor ability to detect temporal bone fracture with transverse component and otic capsule violating pattern, which is associated with a poorer clinical outcome than otic capsule sparing pattern. Routine use of HRCT to identify temporal bone fracture is warranted, even in cases without evidence of temporal bone fracture on brain CT scans or any objective physical findings suggestive of temporal bone fracture.