Objective: To investigate how cochlear patency as seen on preoperative CT and MRI scans correlates with findings at surgery in cochlear implant patients.
Material and methods: CT and MRI scans of 25 patients were reviewed by 3 independent observers. The reviewers classified the cochlear patency and recorded the location of any suspected decrease in patency. Their results were compared with the findings noted during surgery.
Results: Decreased cochlear patency was found in six patients at surgery. The mean sensitivity/specificity of CT and MRI assessment was 33%/88% and 41%/91%, respectively.
Conclusion: Our study suggests that CT, using axial and semi-longitudinal planes, is equivalent to MRI in predicting cochlear patency.