Conclusion
Given the prevalence of CT imaging and cauterization in otologic practice, especially in context of OE and NOE, we recommend imaging patients before silver nitrate cautery if required. If imaging is delayed we recommend contemporaneously documenting the use of silver nitrate and highlighting this on request forms to avoid alarming erroneous reports, unnecessary investigation and surgical procedures. We also encourage discussions between otolaryngology and radiology departments to educate all physicians on the potential appearance of silver nitrate on CT imaging.