A detailed examination of the temporal bones, middle and inner ear, external ear canal and mastoid process. It is the key test for chronic otitis, hearing loss and injuries of the temple area.
- Duration5 minutes
- Contrastusually not needed
- Preparationnone
- Report30–60 minutes
What it shows
- The structure of the middle and inner ear and the external ear canal
- The mastoid process and its inflammation (mastoiditis)
- Temporal bone fractures and the position of fragments
- Effects and complications of chronic otitis
- Otosclerosis
- Developmental anomalies of the temporal bone and inner ear
- Tumours of the bone and adjacent structures
When it is recommended
- Chronic otitis with frequent flare-ups that respond poorly to treatment
- Hearing loss, dizziness or ear pain of unknown cause
- Ear discharge (pus, blood, clear fluid)
- Injury to the temple area, suspected fracture
- Suspected complications of otitis, mastoiditis
- Planning a cochlear implant
- Suspected tumour or developmental anomaly
Good to know
- A referral with a clear clinical question is helpful, so the radiologist knows what to focus on.
- MRI is usually preferred for assessing the nerves in this area.
- A three-dimensional (3D) model of the temporal bone can be built if needed.
General information about CT — safety, contraindications, contrast and what to expect — is on the CT page.