Dataset of search results, data extraction, and quality assessment of studies on postoperative follow-up of cholesteatoma using non-EPI DWI: systematic review 2000–2025

This systematic review evaluates the diagnostic performance of non-echo-planar diffusion-weighted MRI (non-EPI DWI) for detecting postoperative recurrences of cholesteatoma. Nine studies including 914 patients were analyzed, showing high specificity (90–100%) and variable sensitivity (59–100%), with limited detection of lesions smaller than 2–3 mm. Recurrences occurred both early and late, up to 7.5 years after surgery, highlighting variability in follow-up protocols. These findings emphasize the need for standardized imaging strategies to reliably detect recurrences and optimize patient outcomes.