Development of a 3D model for classification of cochlear aquaeduct morphology

The aquaeductus cochleae is a fluid-conducting connection between the perilymphatic space of the inner ear and the subarachnoid space, whose exact function is still unclear. Previous radiological studies have shown that there are anatomical differences between the aquaeductus cochleae of different individuals on a two-dimensional level. Possibly, there is a causal relationship between the aquaeductus cochleae and inner ear pathologies. The aim of this research was on the one hand to perform a 3D analysis of the aquaeductus cochleae and on the other hand to develop a classification of the anatomy and morphology. This classification was evaluated for its clinical applicability in different imaging modalities (petrous bone CT, flat panel volume CT). A methodology was developed to measure various parameters of the aquaeductus cochleae in the segmented 3D model using micro-CT images. This scheme was tested on different imaging modalities (flat panel volume CTs and petrous bone CTs) of petrous bone specimens. It was possible to develop a classification of the aqueductus cochleae in terms of its surrounding structures using the 3D model, which was applicable with both flat panel volume CT and petrous bone CT. However, due to the different resolution capacity, in some cases only limited conclusions could be drawn regarding the anatomy of the aquaeductus cochleae. With the help of micro-CT and its 3D model, a classification of the aqueductus cochleae was created. Clinically applicable flat panel volume CT and, to some extent, petrous bone CT are adequate imaging modalities to apply the developed classification of the morphology of the aqueductus cochleae. These results will serve as a basis for optimizing perioperative diagnostics as well as the evaluation of inner ear pathologies.

Publication History

Article published online:
12 May 2023