A Temporal Bone MRI is one of the quickest MRI scans available, using magnetic resonance imaging to provide a clear image of your inner ear and surrounding structures. It helps your doctor diagnose or rule out several conditions affecting the temporal bone, inner and middle ear, and surrounding areas.
A Temporal Bone MRI uses radio waves and a magnetic field to take detailed images of the temporal bone — the side and base of your skull, including your inner and middle ear. You will lie on a bed inside the scanner as it takes images, which are then displayed on a computer screen for your doctor to review.
Temporal bone imaging typically takes around 15 minutes, though it may take longer depending on the number of images required. A contrast agent is not usually needed, and the procedure is completely painless.
A Temporal Bone MRI may be recommended to help diagnose a range of conditions, including: hearing loss; tumours such as endolymphatic sac tumours, glomus tumours, facial nerve schwannomas, and lipomas; trauma from a fall, vehicle collision, or assault; facial nerve issues including traumatic damage, Bell's palsy, or inflammation; cholesteatoma; vestibular schwannoma in the inner auditory canal or cerebellopontine angle; and cochlear implant candidacy.
A Temporal Bone MRI may also be used to help create a treatment plan and assess the extent of a condition already diagnosed. Your doctor will explain their reasons for recommending the scan beforehand.
You can eat, drink, and take your medications as normal before a Temporal Bone MRI. In some cases, a contrast dye may be used to make vessels more visible — this is administered through an IV before the scan begins and may feel slightly uncomfortable, though it should not be painful. If contrast dye is recommended, inform your doctor of any previous allergic reactions.
If you experience claustrophobia or anxiety, a mild sedative may be prescribed beforehand. If a sedative is taken, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the scan.
On arrival, you will be asked a series of questions including whether you are pregnant and whether you have any metal in your body, such as pacemakers or plates. You will be asked to remove all jewellery, piercings, and metal items, and will be given a hospital gown to change into. Lockers are provided for your belongings — we recommend arriving with as few valuables as possible.
Once changed and with all metal removed, you will lie on an exam table outside the MRI scanner. You will generally be positioned on your back, though the technician may reposition you to capture images from specific angles.
The table will slide into the scanner and the scan will begin, taking images of your temporal bone and sending them to the computer for analysis. This typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, though some scans may take longer.
The MRI machine produces loud humming and clunking sounds throughout — this is normal. Earphones or headphones will be provided to help with the noise, and the technician can speak to you through a microphone and speaker system at any time. It is important to remain as still as possible during the scan, as movement can result in blurry and unreadable images.
After the scan, most patients are free to leave without any aftercare. There are no side effects, and you can generally return to work or school straight away. If a sedative was taken, you will need to arrange a lift home.
Results will either be provided by phone or at a follow-up appointment, where a treatment plan or further testing may be discussed. We aim to provide results as quickly as possible, though during busy periods you may wait up to two weeks. An estimated timeframe will be given after your scan.
Evaluates normal structures of the temporal bone and skull base
Provides your doctor with a detailed baseline view of the area.
Detects abnormalities
Including masses in the internal auditory canal, abnormal cranial nerve calibre, and fluid-filled spaces.
Assists in diagnosis
Helps identify diseases and conditions so you can access the right treatment sooner.
Monitors post-operative progress
Can be used to assess improvements after an operation and confirm whether treatment has been successful.
No radiation exposure
MRI does not use radiation, making it a safe option for most patients.
There are very few risks associated with a Temporal Bone MRI. Key considerations include: MRIs are not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy unless the need outweighs the potential risks; metal in the body can pose risks in the MRI environment, though scanning is often still possible with appropriate precautions; some patients may experience anxiety or claustrophobia during the scan; and the insertion of an IV for contrast dye may cause some minor discomfort.
Yes — you can eat and drink as normal before your Temporal Bone MRI, and as normal afterwards too, allowing you to maintain your usual daily routine.
Contrast dye is not always required for a Temporal Bone MRI, but may be recommended in some cases. Your doctor will advise you beforehand if contrast is needed and will ask about any previous reactions that could affect your suitability for the dye.