Assessment of superior semicircular canal thickness with advancing age

Abstract

Objective: To determine whether superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) is more prevalent with advancing age.

Study design: Retrospective observational study.

Methods: High-resolution computed-tomographic temporal bone scans were identified for patients of all ages and analyzed by two independent assessors. Multiplanar reconstruction was applied, and the thinnest area of temporal bone overlying each superior semicircular canal (SSC) was measured.

Results: A sample of 121 patients was analyzed that contained an almost identical number of male and female patients. In total, 242 temporal bone images were reviewed. Patients' ages ranged between 6 and 86 years. Age was shown to have a significant linear relationship (P < 0.001) such that for every unit increase in age the predicted thickness was reduced by 0.0047 mm.

Conclusions: The thickness of the SSC decreases with advancing age.

Level of evidence: 4.

Keywords: Superior canal dehiscence, superior canal dehiscence syndrome.