Learning objectives
• Discuss the various classifications of temporal bone fractures
• Illustrate complications associated with injury to critical structures in the temporal bone
• Highlight important review areas while reporting traumatic temporal bone injury
Background
Temporal bone fractures often result from high-impact blunt trauma such as motor vehicle accidents or falls.
The anatomy of the temporal bone is complex, with numerous structures within and adjacent to it. The vestibular apparatus and cochlea, which are responsible for hearing and balance are within the petrous portion of the temporal bone. Other structures include major vessels such as the internal carotid artery, jugular bulb, sigmoid sinus, and cranial nerves.
Injury to these structures can lead to various secondary complications. It is vital therefore,...
Findings and procedure details
The temporal bone has five parts: squamous, mastoid, petrous, tympanic, and styloid process. The largest is the squamous part; it is flat and forms the temporal fossa. The pyramid-shaped petrous part is at the base of the temporal bone, and contains the inner ear. The tympanic part surrounds the external auditory canal.
The traditional system of classification of temporal bone fractures is based on the relationship of the fracture line relative to the long axis of the petrous pyramid of the temporal bone and can...
Conclusion
Traumatic injury to the temporal bone can often be complex, involving any of a myriad of structures, each with its own set of complications and management implications. Therefore, it is vital to have a systematic approach to temporal bone trauma, including review areas and knowledge of potential complications.
Personal information and conflict of interest
F. S. R. Ameerudeen Moulana:
Nothing to disclose
I. H. Ahmed:
Nothing to disclose
A. L. F. Yasin:
Nothing to disclose
M. S. Qureshi:
Nothing to disclose
References
Kurihara YY, Fujikawa A, Tachizawa N, Takaya M, Ikeda H, Starkey J. Temporal Bone Trauma: Typical CT and MRI Appearances and Important Points for Evaluation.Radiographics. 2020;40(4):1148-1162. doi:10.1148/rg.2020190023
Zayas JO, Feliciano YZ, Hadley CR, Gomez AA, Vidal JA. Temporal bone trauma and the role of multidetector CT in the emergency department.Radiographics. 2011;31(6):1741-1755. doi:10.1148/rg.316115506
Juliano AF, Ginat DT, Moonis G. Imaging Review of the Temporal Bone: Part II. Traumatic, Postoperative, and Noninflammatory Nonneoplastic Conditions.Radiology. 2015;276(3):655-672. doi:10.1148/radiol.2015140800
Collins JM, Krishnamoorthy AK, Kubal WS, Johnson MH, Poon CS. Multidetector...