The role of high-resolution computed tomography in the diagnostic protocol of cochleo-vestibular disorders

The utility of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) has been to a certain extent neglected in order to investigate on acquired cochleo-vestibular disorders of uncertain origin until the wide range of labyrinthine dehiscences has been discovered. In the last decade both the technical progress, that has permitted a diagnostic refinement in general terms, and the better definition of the width of the dehiscence syndromes, that proved larger than previously expected, has restored CT to its crucial role in detecting inner ear affections. Despite its evidence, this statement has not uniformly entered the habit of clinical practice. For this reason, a review of the literature of the last years, aimed at underlying the real significance of this tool for the otologist, appears of some utility in order to contribute to eliminate deep-rooted diagnostic incongruities.