Choosing Wisely:

Don’t order CT scan of the head/brain for sudden hearing loss.

Search Recommendations

Rationale and Comments: CT scanning is expensive, exposes the patient to radiation, and offers no useful information that would improve initial management. CT scanning may be appropriate in patients with focal neurologic findings, a history of trauma, or chronic ear disease.
Sponsoring Organizations:
  • American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation
    • Sources:
  • American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation practice guidelines
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    Disciplines:
  • Otolaryngologic
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    References: • Stachler RJ, et al. Clinical practice guideline: sudden hearing loss. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2012;146(3 suppl):S1-35.

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