Fracture mimics on temporal bone CT: a guide for the radiologist

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2012 Aug;199(2):428-34. doi: 10.2214/AJR.11.8012.

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this article is to discuss and illustrate commonly visualized fissures and sutures in the temporal bone. This topic is important because a thorough knowledge of normal anatomy is necessary to avoid misinterpretation as fractures.

Conclusion: Small normal anatomic fissures are now routinely visualized with the increasing use of MDCT in trauma patients. An awareness of these structures is required by radiologists interpreting studies with fine temporal bone slices to prevent erroneous interpretation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Skull Fractures / diagnostic imaging*
  • Temporal Bone / anatomy & histology
  • Temporal Bone / diagnostic imaging*
  • Temporal Bone / injuries*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*