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Measurement and comparison of labyrinthine structures with the digital volume tomography: ancient Egyptian mummies’ versus today’s temporal bones

  • Otology
  • Published:
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Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate whether the labyrinthine structures of ancient Egyptian mummies differ significantly from modern labyrinths. The new technique of digital volume tomography (DVT) was used to visualize the temporal bones. To obtain standardized images and measurements, precise instructions regarding volume rotation, slicing and measurements’ positioning were determined. Twenty-five dimensions were obtained. The groups were compared statistically. No significant differences could be found except one cochlear diameter which proved to be significantly larger in the control group. DVT is applicable for imaging of temporal bones. Measurements might help to increase understanding of the temporal bone’s structure, to aid the diagnostics of pathologies as well as to supplement the planning of surgical procedures.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany

    C. Schmidt

  2. Department of Biology, Zoological Collection, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany

    J. Harbort

  3. Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany

    R. Knecht, A. Muenscher & C. V. Dalchow

  4. Department of Neuroradiology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany

    U. Grzyska

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  1. C. Schmidt
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  2. J. Harbort
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  4. U. Grzyska
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  6. C. V. Dalchow
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Correspondence to C. V. Dalchow.

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Schmidt, C., Harbort, J., Knecht, R. et al. Measurement and comparison of labyrinthine structures with the digital volume tomography: ancient Egyptian mummies’ versus today’s temporal bones. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 270, 831–840 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00405-012-2047-y

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