Diffusion weighted MR imaging of primary and recurrent middle ear cholesteatoma: an assessment by readers with different expertise

Comparison of the Image Quality of Turbo Spin Echo and Echo-Planar Diffusion-Weighted Imaging of the Head and Neck Region

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head and neck region is notably challenging due to the complex anatomy and the critical need for high-resolution imaging to accurately diagnose various pathologies. The two prominent MRI techniques used in this context are turbo spin echo (TSE) and echo-planar diffusion-weighted imaging (EP-DWI). TSE is recognized for providing high-resolution anatomical images, whereas EP-DWI offers functional imaging that highlights the diffusion of water molecules, essential for detecting early pathological changes. This study aims to compare the image quality of TSE and EP-DWI in the head and neck region to assess their diagnostic efficacy and clinical utility.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital over six months. A total of 100 patients (50 males and 50 females, aged 18-65 years) with various head and neck pathologies were included. Patients underwent both TSE and EP-DWI sequences using a Philips MULTIVA 1.5 T scanner. Image quality was assessed based on signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), artifact presence, and lesion detection. Two experienced radiologists independently reviewed the images, with inter-observer agreement calculated using Cohen's kappa coefficient.

RESULTS

The mean SNR for TSE was significantly higher than EP-DWI (45.2 vs. 28.7, p<0.01), indicating superior image clarity and detail in TSE images. TSE demonstrated a higher mean CNR compared to EP-DWI (25.4 vs. 15.8, p<0.01), suggesting better differentiation between different tissue types and pathologies. Artifacts were more frequent in EP-DWI images (45% vs. 15%), with motion artifacts being the most common. TSE detected more lesions (120 vs. 95), with more precise delineation of lesions. The inter-observer agreement was excellent for both TSE and EP-DWI, with kappa values of 0.85 and 0.80, respectively.

CONCLUSION

TSE MRI provides superior image quality compared to EP-DWI for evaluating the head and neck region. The enhanced SNR and CNR in TSE images result in clearer and more detailed visualizations of anatomical structures and pathological changes, with fewer artifacts. While EP-DWI is valuable for functional imaging, its role should be complementary to TSE. The study suggests that TSE should be the preferred modality for detailed anatomical assessment in the head and neck region. Further studies with larger sample sizes and advanced imaging techniques may provide additional insights into optimizing MRI protocols for head and neck imaging.

Temporal bone CT-based anatomical parameters associated with the development of cholesteatoma

BACKGROUND

Cholesteatoma is caused by disorders of the middle ear ventilation that trigger a progressive series of events responsible for its formation. The aim of this study was to identify possible radiological CT-derived parameters predisposing to ventilation disorders and cholesteatoma.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, patients diagnosed with cholesteatomatous chronic otitis media who underwent temporal bone CT and open tympanoplasty surgery have been included, as well as control patients with clinical examination negative for organic otological pathology who underwent temporal bone CT for other reasons. For each patient, the following parameters have been extracted from CT volumes: degree of mastoid pneumatization, prominence of the cog, patency of the Eustachian tube, antrum width, aditus width, anterior and posterior epitympanic widths, and epitympanic height.

RESULTS

Sixty patients have been included, thirty of whom belonged to the group of patients with cholesteatoma and the remaining part to the group of patients without organic otological pathology. The prevalence of a low degree of mastoid pneumatization was significantly higher among patients with cholesteatoma, as well as for the prevalence of cog prominence (p < 0.001). All the continuous variables were found to have statistical significance (p < 0.05) in the comparison between groups except for the width of the antrum.

CONCLUSION

Mastoid pneumatization degree, prominence of the cog and epitympanic measures based on temporal bone CT could be good radiological correlates of the ventilatory capabilities of the epitympanum which, if compromised, can facilitate the development of cholesteatoma.

Application of a novel transcanal keyhole technique in endoscopic cholesteatoma surgery

BACKGROUND

It is difficult to deal with epitympanic cholesteatoma in otologic surgery. The keyhole technique can realize minimally invasive surgery and reconstruct the middle ear canal.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the clinical application of keyhole technique in primary and second-look surgery in middle ear cholesteatoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

34 cases were analyzed retrospectively in terms of residual and recurrence rate, safety (adverse events) and hearing performance at long-term follow-up. The application of the technique in primary or second stage operation was evaluated and the operation was performed by transanal endoscopy or combined approach.

RESULTS

The cholesteatoma revealed by CT before operation was limited to the attic in 23 patients, of which 16 had the same imaging range as that of the keyhole technique. The preoperative imaging findings of 11 showed that the attic cholesteatoma may have extended into the mastoid, of which only 6 cases were confirmed by keyhole technique. An endoscopic second-look surgery using the keyhole technique was performed for these patients, 2 were confirmed to have residual lesions in the attic.

CONCLUSIONS

The keyhole technique under otoendoscopy can be used flexibly and conveniently in the second-look surgery to make up for the shortage of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging.

Computed-Tomography-Structured Reporting in Middle Ear Opacification: Surgical Results and Clinical Considerations From a Large Retrospective Analysis

Purpose: The aim of the study is to compare the accuracy of unstructured preoperative Computed Tomography (CT) reports from non-tertiary diagnostic centers with intraoperative findings in a large cohort of patients with Chronic Otitis Media (COM) undergone surgery.

Methods: From 2012 to 2019, a total number of 301 patients were considered for our purposes. All patients with clinical evidence of COM had preoperative non-contrast high resolution CT scan of the temporal bone in non-tertiary diagnostic centers, performed within 3 months before surgery.

Results: The accuracy of CT reports was analyzed in terms of nature, anatomical site, disease extension, bony erosion, vascular structures abnormalities relevant to surgical planning, and Eustachian tube patency. Compared to post-surgical findings, CT reporting critical analysis revealed a tendency to overestimation of bony erosion, coupled to underestimated description of facial canal/lateral semi-circular canal, vascular structures, and Eustachian tube.

Conclusion: Discrepancies between CT reports and surgical findings in middle ear opacification can be at least in part due to limited expertise of general radiologists in ENT neuroimaging. To limit this lack of information and the limited accuracy of middle ear structures depiction, here we propose a structured checklist to adopt in the case of a temporal bone CT scan for COM, in order to optimize the communication with surgeons and provide all the crucial information for an accurate surgical planning.

Spontaneous emphysematous osteomyelitis of the spine: A case report

Spontaneous emphysematous osteomyelitis of the spine is a very rare but severe condition caused by gas-forming microorganisms. We present the case of a 41-year-old obese male patient presenting at the Emergency Department with diabetic ketoacidosis, fever, and difficulty in walking. computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the spine revealed bone marrow edema and intraosseous gas collections at the level of the fourth and fifth lumbar metameres, suggesting an osteomyelitis sustained by gas-forming microorganisms, which was then confirmed by the isolation of Klebsiella pneumonia in blood culture.

Imaging plays a central role for the diagnosis of emphysematous osteomyelitis: the presence of multiple intraosseous gas collections of variable size, especially in patients with specific risk factors, is highly suggestive of an infection caused by gas-forming pathogens. Being familiar with this peculiar neuroradiological appearance is essential to ensure an early diagnosis and a timely antimicrobial therapy, which can considerably ameliorate the prognosis.

Malignant Otitis External: Our Experience and Literature Review

BACKGROUND Malignant external otitis (MEO) is an invasive infection that can involve the external auditory canal and the skull base up to the contiguous soft tissues. Considering the changing face of MEO, we reviewed cases of MEO treated in our Ear Nose Throat (ENT) clinic - University Federico II of Naples between 2018 and 2019 to evaluate the current epidemiology of the condition and to assess the state of art on diagnosis, therapeutic and follow-up management in our patients. CASE REPORT We present the cases of three male patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus who complained of long-lasting otorrhea and pain, with clinical suspicion of MEO. In all cases, ear swab was positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. All our patients received a 6-week course of intravenous ciprofloxacin, piperacillin, and tazobactam, with rapid clinical symptoms improvement and complete recovery at 1-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS MEO is difficult to treat due to the lack of standardized care guidelines. Patients with MEO often present with severe otalgia, edema, otorrhea, and facial nerve paralysis. Clinicians must suspect MEO in elderly diabetic and immunocompromised patients with persistent otalgia after external otitis. Imaging (computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging) can play synergistic roles in the management of MEO. To evaluate eradication of the disease, clinicians have to assess clinical symptoms and signs as well as radiological imaging and inflammatory markers.

Predictive factors of volumetric reduction in lumbar disc herniation treated by O2-O3 chemiodiscolysis

Purpose:

Aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of O₂-O₃ percutaneous chemiodiscolysis by evaluating volumetric changes in lumbar disc herniation on magnetic resonance imaging, in order to identify possible pre-treatment factors affecting such changes

Methods:

Between January 2014 and December 2017, a total of 87 patients with low back pain and 103 lumbar disc herniations with MRI confirmation were considered for O₂-O₃ chemiodiscolysis. The volume of each herniated disc was determined before and after the treatment.

Results:

Multiple linear regression analysis showed a strong correlation between post-treatment LDH volume percent change and both pre-treatment LDH volume and pre-treatment EQ-VAS (p<0.05), while age showed only a weak positive correlation with post-treatment LDH volume percent change (p<0.1). No association was found for other factors, such as sex and herniation disc level.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, age, baseline LDH volume and self-assessed disease severity score could represent three easy accessible outcome predictive parameters to consider when intradiscal O₂-O₃ chemiodiscolysis is envisaged. Better results after intradiscal O₂-O₃ chemiodiscolysis were obtained in older patients with higher pre-treatment LDH volume and low-moderate pre-treatment EQ-VAS. (www.actabiomedica.it)

A multimodal diagnostic approach to inverted papilloma: Proposal of a novel diagnostic flow-chart

PURPOSE

Inverted papilloma (IP) is a tumor usually arising from sinonasal cavities, with tendency for recurrence and possible malignant transformation. Along with endoscopy, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play a crucial role in defining preoperative staging, tumor origin, and possible differential diagnosis, with significant repercussions on therapeutic planning. However, at present no consensus has been reached concerning IP diagnostic workup. Aim of this study is to assess CT and MRI sensitivity and specificity in identifying IP imaging hallmarks, evaluating their global diagnostic accuracy in order to define a novel diagnostic flowchart.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed multimodal imaging of patients with histologically confirmed IP and mimics. Two neuroradiologists in consensus retrospectively rated the presence of typical imaging features of IP, both on CT and MRI scans. Sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy were assessed for both the techniques. Final results were expressed as ROC curves and relative areas under the curve (AUC).

RESULTS

The AUC considering CT parameters were 0.42, whereas the AUC considering MRI parameters were 0.54. Combining the 2 techniques and limiting the evaluation to the most distinctive features such as focal hyperostosis and CCP, the AUC was 0.79.

CONCLUSION

MRI can provide better tissue characterization and higher diagnostic accuracy in case of suspected IP, whereas CT is more useful in determining bony involvement. Here we propose a possible diagnostic flowchart for IP, based on the assumption that the combination of the imaging techniques allows to optimize the clinical assessment and the subsequent therapeutic planning.

Performance of TGSE BLADE DWI compared with RESOLVE DWI in the diagnosis of cholesteatoma

Background

Based on its high resolution in soft tissue, MRI, especially diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), is increasingly important in the evaluation of cholesteatoma. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of the 2D turbo gradient- and spin-echo (TGSE) diffusion-weighted (DW) pulse sequence with the BLADE trajectory technique in the diagnosis of cholesteatoma at 3 T and to qualitatively and quantitatively compare image quality between the TGSE BLADE and RESOLVE methods.

Method

A total of 42 patients (23 males, 19 females; age range, 7–65 years; mean, 40.1 years) with surgically confirmed cholesteatoma in the middle ear were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent DWI (both a prototype TGSE BLADE DWI sequence and the RESOLVE DWI sequence) using a 3-T scanner with a 64-channel brain coil.

Qualitative imaging parameters (imaging sharpness, geometric distortion, ghosting artifacts, and overall imaging quality) and quantitative imaging parameters (apparent diffusion coefficient [ADC], signal-to-noise ratio [SNR], contrast, and contrast-to-noise ratio [CNR]) were assessed for the two diffusion acquisition techniques by two independent radiologists.

Result

A comparison of qualitative scores indicated that TGSE BLADE DWI produced less geometric distortion, fewer ghosting artifacts (P < 0.001) and higher image quality (P < 0.001) than were observed for RESOLVE DWI. A comparison of the evaluated quantitative image parameters between TGSE and RESOLVE showed that TGSE BLADE DWI produced a significantly lower SNR (P < 0.001) and higher parameter values (both contrast and CNR (P < 0.001)) than were found for RESOLVE DWI.

The ADC (P < 0.001) was significantly lower for TGSE BLADE DWI (0.763 × 10^− 3 mm²/s) than RESOLVE DWI (0.928 × 10^− 3 mm²/s).

Conclusion

Compared with RESOLVE DWI, TGSE BLADE DWI significantly improved the image quality of cholesteatoma by reducing magnetic sensitive artifacts, distortion, and blurring. TGSE BLADE DWI is more valuable than RESOLVE DWI for the diagnosis of small-sized (2 mm) cholesteatoma lesions. However, TGSE BLADE DWI also has some disadvantages: the whole image intensity is slightly low, so that the anatomical details of the air-bone interface are not shown well, and this shortcoming should be improved in the future.

Multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging characterization of orbital lesions: a triple blind study

Background: Multi-parametric MRI used for preoperative assessment of orbital lesions does not routinely include DCE-MRI, since its accuracy in differential diagnosis of orbital mass is still under debate. Aim of this study is to characterize orbital lesions by multi-parametric MRI, analysing the incremental predictive value of DCE-MRI in differential diagnosis of orbital lesions.Methods: In this prospective triple-blind study, 43 consecutive patients with unilateral orbital lesion underwent conventional multimodal MRI and DCE-MRI before biopsy in a tertiary referral centre. Pre-operative MRI examination including conventional unenhanced MRI protocol, DWI with ADC maps, static CE 3D-T1 w and dynamic CE T1 w sequences, was performed within 1 week from surgery (anterior/lateral orbitotomy depending on location of the lesion, to carry out incisional/excisional biopsy).Results: Comparison between conventional T1 w/T2 w, DWI, CE 3D-T1 w and DCE-MRI groups showed a statistically significant difference in scores distribution (p < .001). Statistically significant difference was found between conventional T1 w/T2 w and DWI (p < .005), as well as between DWI and CE 3D-T1 w (p < .001). Conversely, no significant difference was found between CE 3D-T1 w and DCE (p < .005).Conclusions and Relevance: This study confirmed the positive effect of DWI and CE 3D-T1 w on orbital lesions diagnosis when added to conventional T1 w/T2 w sequences, whereas no substantial impact on diagnostic performance was observed with the further addition of DCE-MRI. DCE does not strongly influence diagnostic performance and inter-rater agreement in characterizing orbital lesions; therefore, it should be recommended in selected patients whose assessment of flow dynamics is particularly useful for management.Abbreviations: US = ultrasonography; MRI = magnetic resonance imaging; CT = computed tomography; STIR = Short-TI Inversion Recovery; DWI = diffusion weighted imaging; DCE-MRI = dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI; SE = Spin-Echo; TSE = Turbo Spin-Echo; THRIVE = T1-weighted high resolution Isotropic Volume Examination (dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrafast spoiled gradient echo); ROI = regions of interest; IRR = inter-rater reliability; TIC = time-intensity curve.

Apparent diffusion coefficients for predicting primary cholesteatoma risk of recurrence after surgical clearance

PURPOSE

Beside the well-known accuracy of non-EPI DWI techniques and relative ADC maps in detecting cholesteatomatous tissue, ADC can also represent a useful tool for stratifying cholesteatoma risk of recurrence. Aim of this study is to test the role of ADC in determining risk of recurrence for primary middle ear cholesteatoma, proposing stratification based on pre-operative mean (mADC) and normalized (nADC) ADC values.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 60 patients with primary unilateral middle ear cholesteatoma underwent a three-years-long follow-up to assess the presence of recurrent disease after macroscopically complete excisional surgery. Baseline MRI examination mADC and nADC values in the group with early evidence of recurrent cholesteatoma were compared to the group with no evidence of recurrence by using T statistics.

RESULTS

ADC values on pre-operative MRI examination were lower in cholesteatomas with early evidence of recurrence, and statistical significance was slightly higher for nADC compared to mADC measurements. We also determined a cut-off between the two groups, proposing stratification in high-risk of recurrence cholesteatomas (mADC≤ 1000 or nADC< 1.3) and low-risk cholesteatomas (mADC>1000 or nADC≥1.3).

CONCLUSIONS

ADC values resulted discriminating in identifying cholesteatomas with higher risk of early recurrence, both for mean and normalized ADC, with optimized tissue characterization and outcome prediction.

Diagnosis and management of intralabyrinthine schwannoma: case series and review of the literature

Intralabyrinthine schwannoma (ILS) is a rare benign tumor affecting cochlear and vestibular nerves, whose symptoms are generally unspecific and frequently responsible for a late diagnosis. Radiological examinations, with particular reference to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), represent the only diagnostic technique to identify ILS. On computed tomography ILS can only be indirectly suspected by the presence of surrounding bone remodeling, whereas MRI provides direct visualization of the neoplasm as a filling defect within the labyrinth with vivid contrast enhancement. At the same time, MRI is also helpful in defining ILS anatomical extension into adjacent structures and in planning therapeutic management. Here we report three representative cases of ILS with new pictorial imaging features to improve ILS early detection and optimize subsequent therapeutic management.

Evaluation of pituitary structures and lesions with turbo spin-echo diffusion-weighted imaging

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Turbo spin-echo diffusion-weighted imaging (TSE-DWI) has not been used for evaluating pituitary lesions. We compared the usefulness of TSE-DWI and echo-planar (EP)-DWI for assessing normal pituitary structures and lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our study included 41 consecutive patients (27 pituitary adenomas, 8 Rathke's cleft cysts, 4 craniopharyngiomas, 1 germinoma, 1 pituitary metastasis) who underwent conventional pre- and post-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and TSE- and EP-DWI at 3T. Two observers independently performed qualitative assessment of normal pituitary structures and lesions on sagittal DWI and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps. One observer recorded ADC values of normal brain structures and pituitary lesions. Kappa (κ) statistics, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, intraclass correlation coefficient, Bland-Altman analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient and independent t-test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Interobserver agreement for qualitative evaluations was good to excellent (κ = 0.65-1.0). On both DWI and ADC maps, visualization of the pituitary gland, of the spatial relationship between the lesion and its normal surroundings, and the whole image quality were significantly better on TSE- than EP sequences (p < .01). In normal brain structures, the ADC value on TSE- and EP-sequences was significantly correlated (r = 0.6979, p < .05). The TSE-ADC value was significantly lower for pituitary adenomas than craniopharyngiomas (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

For the evaluation of normal pituitary structures and lesions, TSE-DWI is more useful than EP-DWI. The TSE-ADC value may help to differentiate between pituitary adenoma and craniopharyngioma.

Cholesteatoma vs granulation tissue: a differential diagnosis by DWI-MRI apparent diffusion coefficient

PURPOSE

To diagnose cholesteatoma when it is not visible through tympanic perforation, imaging techniques are necessary. Recently, the combination of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging has proven effective to diagnose middle ear cholesteatoma. In particular, diffusion weighted images have integrated the conventional imaging for the qualitative assessment of cholesteatoma. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to obtain a quantitative analysis of cholesteatoma calculating the apparent diffusion coefficient value. So, we investigated whether it could differentiate cholesteatoma from other inflammatory tissues both in a preoperative and in a postoperative study.

METHODS

This study included 109 patients with clinical suspicion of primary or residual/recurrent cholesteatoma. All patients underwent preoperative computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging with diffusion sequences before primary or second-look surgery to calculate the apparent diffusion coefficient value.

RESULTS

We found that the apparent diffusion coefficient values of cholesteatoma were significantly lower than those of non cholesteatoma. In particular, the apparent diffusion coefficient median value of the cholesteatoma group (0.84 × 10^- 3 mm²/s) differed from the inflammatory granulation tissue (2.21 × 10^- 3 mm²/s) group (p < 2.2 × 10^- 16). Furthermore, we modeled the probability of cholesteatoma by means of a logistic regression and we determined an optimal cut-off probability value of ~ 0.86 (specificity = 1.0, sensitivity = 0.97), corresponding to an apparent diffusion coefficient cut-off value of 1.37 × 10^- 3 mm²/s.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study has demonstrated that apparent diffusion coefficient values constitute a valuable quantitative parameter for preoperative differentiation of cholesteatomas from other middle ear inflammatory diseases and for postoperative diagnosis of recurrent/residual cholesteatomas.

Comparison of the image quality of turbo spin echo- and echo-planar diffusion-weighted images of the oral cavity

The purpose of this study was to compare the image quality of turbo spin echo (TSE) diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and echo-planar imaging (EPI) of the oral cavity region.This retrospective study included 26 patients who had undergone both TSE- and EPI-DWI. Misregistration of DWI with T2-TSE images was assessed in the oral cavity. We also compared geometric distortion, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast, and the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) for the tongue parotid gland, and spinal cord. On a 5-point scale, 2 radiologists scored the TSE- and EPI-DWI of each patient for ghost artifacts, image contrast, and overall image quality.Distortion in the phase-encoded direction was significantly lower on TSE- than EPI-DWI. The SNR of the tongue and parotid gland was significantly higher on TSE than EPI-DWI except spinal cord. No significant difference was found in contrast and ADC values (except for the ADC of tongue). TSE-DWI yielded higher qualitative scores for all parameters except image contrast.For the oral cavity region, TSE-DWI was superior to EPI-DWI with respect to distortion-free images and superior image quality.

ADC Benchmark Range for Correct Diagnosis of Primary and Recurrent Middle Ear Cholesteatoma

OBJECTIVES

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and in particular diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) have been broadly proven to be the reference imaging method to discriminate between cholesteatoma and noncholesteatomatous middle ear lesions, especially when high tissue specificity is required. The aim of this study is to define a range of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values within which the diagnosis of cholesteatoma is almost certain.

METHODS

The study was retrospectively conducted on a cohort of 124 patients. All patients underwent first- or second-look surgery because primary or secondary acquired cholesteatoma was clinically suspected; they all had preoperative MRI examination 15 days before surgery, including DWI from which the ADC maps were calculated.

RESULTS

Average ADC value for cholesteatomas was 859,4 × 10-6 mm2/s (range 1545 × 10-6 mm2/s; IQR = 362 × 10-6 mm2/s; σ = 276,3 × 10-6 mm2/s), while for noncholesteatomatous inflammatory lesions, it was 2216,3 × 10-6 mm2/s (range 1015 × 10-6 mm2/s; IQR = 372,75 × 10-6 mm2/s; σ = 225,6 × 10-6 mm2/s). Interobserver agreement with Fleiss' Kappa statistics was 0,96. No overlap between two groups' range of values was found and the difference was statistically significant for p < 0.0001.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose an interval of ADC values that should represent an appropriate benchmark range for a correct differentiation between cholesteatoma and granulation tissue or fibrosis of noncholesteatomatous inflammatory lesions.

Accuracy of turbo spin-echo diffusion-weighted imaging signal intensity measurements for the diagnosis of cholesteatoma

PURPOSE

We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of turbo spin-echo diffusion-weighted imaging (TSE-DWI) at 3 T, for cholesteatoma (CS) diagnosis, using qualitative and quantitative methods with numerical assessment of signal intensity (SI), signal intensity ratios (SIR), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, two blinded observers independently evaluated the preoperative TSE-DWI images of 57 patients who were imaged with a presumed diagnosis of CS. Qualitative assessment with respect to the SI of the adjacent cortex and quantitative measurements of SI, SIR, and ADC values were performed.

RESULTS

Surgery with histopathologic examination revealed 30 CS patients and 27 patients with non-cholesteatoma (NCS) lesions including chronic inflammation and cholesterol granuloma. On TSE-DWI, 96.7% of the CS lesions and none of the NCS lesions appeared hyperintense compared with the cortex. The mean SI and SIR indices of the CS group were significantly higher and the mean ADC values significantly lower compared with those of the NCS group (P < 0.001). Using specific cutoff values for SI (92.5) and SIR (0.9), CS could be diagnosed with 100% sensitivity and specificity. The use of quantitative imaging further increased the sensitivity of the TSE-DWI technique.

CONCLUSION

The quantitative indices of SI, SIR, and ADC of TSE-DWI appear to be highly accurate parameters that can be used to confirm the diagnosis of CS.

Chronically Discharging Ears: Evalution with High Resolution Computed Tomography

Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) refers to the middle ear inflammation which is clinically characterized by the discharging ear, hearing deficit, fever and otalgia. Although a clinical diagnosis, imaging is imperative to rule out associated complications which apart from causing hearing deficit, may prove fatal at times. Both high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and MRI are helpful in evaluating middle ear pathologies, usage being indication specific. Due to its excellent spatial resolution, HRCT is invaluable in assessment of chronically discharging ears, especially to look for bone erosion and the integrity of the ossicles. Due to its better spatial resolution, HRCT is preferred in suspected intra temporal complications whereas MRI is more useful in evaluating intracranial extension.

Diffusion weighted imaging for the detection and evaluation of cholesteatoma

Cholesteatoma is a collection of keratinous debris and stratified squamous epithelium. It is trapped in the middle ear and can lead to bony erosion. The disease is treated surgically often followed by a second-look procedure to check for residual tissue or recurrence. Cholesteatoma has specific signal-intensity characteristics on magnetic resonance imaging with very high signal intensity on diffusion weighted imaging (DWI). Various DWI techniques exist: Echo-planar imaging (EPI)-based and non-EPI-based techniques as well as new approaches like multi-shot EPI DWI. This article summarizes all techniques, discusses the significance in detecting cholesteatoma and mentions actual studies. Further recommendations for daily clinical practise are provided.

Comparison of 2D single-shot turbo-spin-echo and spin-echo echo-planar diffusion weighted brain MRI at 3.0 Tesla: preliminary experience in children

PURPOSE

To qualitatively compare a 2D single-shot turbo-spin-echo (ssTSE) diffusion-weighted imaging MRI technique with a spin-echo echo-planar imaging (SE-EPI) approach in pediatric neuroimaging.

METHODS

Images were acquired at 3T in 15 patients (10.6±6.0years). A neuroradiologist rated the data based on the severity of image artifacts from air-tissue interfaces and devices such as ventriculoperitoneal shunts and orthodontia, and whether their presence affected diagnostic image quality.

RESULTS

ssTSE was preferred over SE-EPI in diagnostic image quality and exhibited fewer clinically relevant artifacts (p<0.01).

CONCLUSION

ssTSE provides superior diffusion-weighted brain images at 3T, particularly in the presence of orthodontia and shunts.

Non-echoplanar diffusion weighted imaging in the detection of post-operative middle ear cholesteatoma: navigating beyond the pitfalls to find the pearl

Abstract

Non-echoplanar diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) has established itself as the modality of choice in detecting and localising post-operative middle ear cleft cholesteatoma. Despite its good diagnostic performance, there are recognised pitfalls in its radiological interpretation which both the radiologist and otologist should be aware of. Our article highlights the various pitfalls and provides guidance for improving radiological interpretation and navigating beyond many of the pitfalls. It is recommended radiological practice to interpret the diffusion weighted images together with the ADC map and supplement with the corresponding T1 weighted and T2 weighted images, all of which can contribute to and enhance lesion localisation and characterisation. ADC values are also helpful in improving specificity and confidence levels. Given the limitation in sensitivity in detecting small cholesteatoma less than 3 mm, serial monitoring with DWI over time is recommended to allow any small residual cholesteatoma pearls to grow and become large enough to be detected on DWI. Optimising image acquisition and discussing at a joint clinico-radiological meeting both foster good radiological interpretation to navigate beyond the pitfalls and ultimately good patient care.

Teaching Points

• Non-echoplanar DWI is the imaging of choice in detecting post-operative cholesteatoma.

• There are recognised pitfalls which may hinder accurate radiological interpretation.

• Interpret with the ADC map /values and T1W and T2W images.

• Serial DWI monitoring is of value in detection and characterisation.

• Optimising image acquisition and discussing at clinico-radiological meetings enhance radiological interpretation.

The disease recurrence rate after the canal wall up or canal wall down technique in adults

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To review which type of cholesteatoma surgery, canal wall up (CWU) or canal wall down (CWD), provides the lowest risk for residual and/or recurrent disease in adults with primary acquired cholesteatoma.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, Scopus and Web of Science.

STUDY DESIGN

We selected articles comparing CWU with CWD, reporting on disease recidivism (combined residual and recurrent disease) or independent residual or disease recurrence rates. We included studies with a moderate to high relevance.

RESULTS

Our search yielded 2,060 articles. We selected seven studies that carried a moderate risk of bias. Six studies described higher disease recidivism after the CWU procedure [16.7-61.0%] compared to the CWD technique [0-13.2%]. Four studies showed statistical significant difference (P < .05). One study showed opposite results: recidivism was found in 7.8% CWU and in 22.1% CWD cases (P < .001). Studies showed CWU recidivism more likely to be residual disease, whereas CWD recidivism tended to be recurrent disease.

CONCLUSION

The majority of included studies showed CWU to result in more disease recidivism compared to the CWD technique in adult patients with a primary acquired cholesteatoma. If recidivism risk is the most important factor to consider a certain surgical technique, we recommend application of the CWD procedure. However, many additional factors in patient care will define the best treatment decision, such as residual hearing and access to health care. Our recommendations are based on Level II evidence, which underlines the need for future high-level evidence studies.