Imaging of Pediatric Hearing Loss

Temporal bone high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging are valuable tools in the evaluation of pediatric hearing loss. Computed tomography is important in the evaluation of pediatric conductive hearing loss and is the imaging modality of choice for evaluation of osseous abnormalities. MR imaging is the modality of choice for evaluation of sensorineural hearing loss. A broad spectrum of imaging findings can be seen with hearing loss in children. HRCT and MR imaging provide complementary information and are often used in conjunction in the preoperative evaluation of pediatric candidates for cochlear implantation.