Abstract
A new staging system is proposed for malignant tumors of the temporal bone, based on findings obtained from CT scans and MR imaging. All of important anatomical sites are included in this T classification system and divided into 6 groups depending on the direction of the tumor extension. A tumor in T1 category is defined that tumor locates in the external auditory meatus (EAM) and does not infiltrate into the bony structure. A T2 tumor infiltrates into the bony part of EAM but does not extend into the middle ear. A T3 tumor locates within the temporal bone including the middle ear. A T4 tumor extends beyond the temporal bone. Using this staging system, appropriate selection of the surgical treatment for the malignant tumors of the temporal bone was investigated.
