Author(s)
Eric M. Sugihara, DO
Prasad J. Thottam, DO
Dennis J. Kitsko, DO
Seilesh C. Babu, MD
Affiliation(s)
Abstract:
Objectives: To determine the incidence and association of superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) with inner ear (IE) anomalies in the pediatric population. Study Design: Retrospective chart review. Setting: Three tertiary referral centers in ambulatory and hospital settings. Patients: Children less than 18 years who received a 0.5 mm or less collimated CT including the temporal bones between 2010 to 2013 for reasons including, but not limited to, hearing loss, trauma, and infection. Interventions: Radiologic software was used to reformat images into Pöschl and Stenver planes. Five hundred three CT images were reviewed by experienced neuroradiologists. Main Outcome Measures: Incidence of SSCD and IE anomalies, noting laterality. Patient age, sex, and diagnosis were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed to compare CT findings across outcome measures and patient demographics. Results: Pediatric incidence of SSCD was 6.2% (31/503) and an IE anomaly was 15.1% (76/503). Within SSCD patients, incidence of an IE anomaly was 22.6% (7/31); and within IE anomaly patients, incidence of SSCD was 9.2% (7/76). Incidence of SSCD with an IE anomaly together was not significantly correlated (1.4%, 7/503; P=0.23). The Incidence of an IE anomaly with bilateral (0.8%, 4/503) vs. unilateral (0.6%, 3/503) SSCD was similar. Conclusions: SSCD incidence is higher in the pediatric population compared to adults. SSCD and inner ear anomalies rarely occur together and are unlikely related. Similar incidences of having an IE anomaly with unilateral vs. bilateral SSCD further supports this. Define Professional Practice Gap & Educational Needs: Lack of contemporary knowledge regarding pediatric superior semicircular canal dehiscence and its relationship with inner ear anomalies. Learning Objective: To understand the increased incidence of pediatric superior semicircular canal dehiscence and its rare occurrence with inner ear anomalies, being unlikely related. Desired Result: Changes in physician knowledge of superior semicircular canal dehiscence, specifically in pediatric populations as it may contribute to the understanding of its pathogenesis. Indicate IRB or IACUC Approval: Approved