Background: The CB-CT imaging technique presents a novel approach that offers a notable reduction in radiation exposure compared to conventional MSCT.

Methods: A total of 40 patients with conductive hearing loss and normal anatomical inner ear structures, were selected from Audiovestibular Medicine Unit. CBCT equipment NEWTOM GiANO was utilized for all tests, which were conducted without the use of contrast material. The imaging included the entirety of the temporal bone. Throughout the procedure, the individual assumes a seated position on a seat that can be adjusted to accommodate their needs. To reduce the potential for motion artifacts, the head was affixed to a headband.

Results: Twenty-seven patients (67.5%) exhibited thickening of the stapes footplate on the right side, while 25patients (62.5%) demonstrated thickening of the stapes footplate on the left side. Regarding the enlarged stapes footplate side, bilateral involvement was observed in 25 patients (92.6%), while unilateral involvement was observed in 2 cases (7.5%). On the right side, mild symptoms were observed in 4 individuals, accounting for 10% of the sample, whereas moderate symptoms were reported in 36 patients, constituting 90% of the sample. On the left side, the observed condition was within the normal range in two patients (5%), slightly abnormal in two patients (5%), mildly abnormal in 26 patients (65%), and moderately abnormal in 10 patients (25%).

Conclusion: This study demonstrates the possibility of high-resolution cone-beam computed tomography (CB-CT) imaging in providing more definitive findings on the diagnostic capabilities of CB-CT for the middle ear.