[Radiological studies in otology].

Skull X-rays with special projections, particularly tomography of the temporal bone, are very helpful procedures in the differential diagnosis of diseases of the temporal bone. Tomography serves to delineate the size and distribution of tumors in the middle or inner ear. Furthermore, in fractures of the temporal bone the fracture line can be seen throughout the entire osseous structure. Special projections are reported for tomography of the temporal bone, with special emphasis on the indications for such procedures. Meatocisternography, a study in which the internal auditory canal is filled with contrast medium, shows defects caused by neurinomas. Indications for angiography (carotid or vertebral) are large neurinomas penetrating the posterior fossa or other tumors of the inner or middle ear, i.e. chemodectomas. A chemodectoma of the jugular bulb can also be demonstrated by jugular venography.