Assessment of Ostmann\'s Pad of Fat Thickness Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Aims:This study aimed at measuring the thickness of Ostmann's pad of fat of the Eustachian tube of the Indian population using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a means to assess the normal anatomical thickness of the fat pad and its variations.Materials and methods: A retrospective study was conducted in our institution over a period of three months.Magnetic resonance imaging brain and head and neck of patients of age more than 14 years and both genders were studied.The thickest part of Ostmann's fat pad in the mediolateral dimension was measured and compared.The measurements were compared with respect to side, age, and gender.The data obtained were analyzed statistically.Results: There was no significant statistical difference in the thickness of the fat pad with respect to side and gender.The thickness of the fat pad decreases as the age increases. Conclusion:Studying the fat pad would help us further understand the pharyngotympanic tube function and the development of middle ear pathologies.Clinical significance: The Ostmann's pad of fat decreases in thickness with increasing age.Magnetic resonance imaging is a valuable investigative modality to visualize the Eustachian tube and the structures around it.