Temporal bone CT measurement for pediatric cochlear implantation

High-resolution computed tomographic (CT) images were analyzed to determine the normal course of skull and temporal bone development. CT images of 146 ears from 81 Japanese children of varying ages were included in this study. The growth of the skull and the temporal bone was rapid during the first 5 years of life followed by gradual but steady development until the age of 15. The period of rapid growth lasted 1 to 2 years longer than that previously reported in American children. Head growth after surgery should be taken into account for successful pediatric cochlear implant surgery. (author)