Objective: To explore practical value of oblique sagittal MRI of internal auditory canal (IAC) before cochlear implantation.
Method: Fifteen patients(30 ears) with sensorineural hearing loss who prepared to receive cochlear implantation were examined by oblique sagittal MRI (three dimensional T2-weighted fast spin echo) of IAC.
Result: All patients have successfully completed oblique sagittal magnetic resonance imaging of IAC. The nerves in internal auditory canal were displayed distinctly. Thirteen patients with normal cochlear nerve had CI successfully, while 2 cases didn't receive CI due to abnormality of cochlear nerve.
Conclusion: Oblique sagittal magnetic resonance imaging of internal auditory canal is a good method for evaluating development of cochlear nerve before cochlear implantation.