Anatomical Risk Factors Identifiable on Computed Tomography in Otosclerosis

Objective: The aim of the current study was to evaluate the relationship between the dimensions of the temporal bone, high-riding jugular bulbs, and jugular bulb dehiscence in patients with otosclerosis compared with healthy controls. Method: Two radiologists retrospectively evaluated high-resolution computed tomography images of the temporal bone from 34 patients radiologically diagnosed with otosclerosis, along with images from 34 age- and sex-matched control subjects for comparison. Measurements of temporal bone, including the length and width of the petrous bone and the angle between the midsagittal line and the petrous bone, were performed on a defined standardized slice orientation using a workstation. High-riding jugular bulbs and jugular bulb dehiscence were noted in both groups. Results: The study cohort of 68 subjects (34 patients and 34 controls) with an average age of 48.08±11.23 years showed no significant differences in the presence of high jugular bulbs and jugular bulb dehiscence. The lengths, widths, and angles of the petrous bone were similar in both groups when analyzed bilaterally, as well as in comparisons between the affected sides of patients and the corresponding sides of the healthy controls. Conclusion: The current study revealed that neither high-riding jugular bulb nor jugular bulb dehiscence was significantly associated with otosclerosis. Additionally, the dimensions of the petrous part of the temporal bone were not associated with the disease. Identifying the anatomical factors associated with or not associated with otosclerosis can be instrumental in clarifying its etiology and guiding future research toward a more comprehensive understanding of the disease.