BACKGROUND: The minimal distances between basic temporal bone structureslimit the operating field in ear surgery. The aim of the present study was to perform measurements onthe minimal distances between key structures of the temporal bone and to investigate possible correlationsbetween given structures. MATERIAL/METHODS: The author removed 100 temporal bones from subjects of bothsexes, across a range of age groups and from both sides of the body. Minimal distances were measuredbetween the following structures: the lateral semicircular canal (SC), the tympanic ring (TR), the hardmeninges of the middle cranial fossa (HM), the facial nerve (FN), the upper bulb of the internal jugularvein (JB) and the internal carotid artery (CA), collected in the appropriate pairs. The samples weremeasured using an operating microscope equipped with a graduated eyepiece. RESULTS: The results are presentedin various categories according to age, sex, and side of the body. Five pairs of distances were foundto be significantly shorter in younger children (group I) than in older children and adults (group II).CONCLUSIONS: Ear surgery in younger children demands much more care than in older children and adults,especially regarding situations when the jugular bulb is in the operating field.

Keywords: Adolescent, Child, Child, Preschool, Infant, Newborn, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov, Temporal Bone