The Utricular Macula

Abstract

To identify and measure the mean size of the utricular macula using 3-T imaging. One hundred one examinations using a 3-T magnetic resonance scanner and standard temporal bone protocol were performed over a 9-month period. Asymptomatic sides were then retrospectively evaluated using the axial T2-driven equilibrium sequence (0.3-mm slice thickness). We performed the following analyses: (1) reported frequency at which this structure could be identified and (2) calculated the mean size of the utricular macula. The utricular macula was identified in all 101 cases as an ellipsoid area of T2 hypointensity in the utricle. The average anteroposterior x transverse x craniocaudal dimensions were 1.7 x 1.5 x 1.0 mm. The utricular macula is consistently identified with 3-T imaging in asymptomatic patients.