Vascularization of the endochondral layer with respect to the otic capsule. A comparative anatomical study.

The otic capsules of several species were examined morphometrically and compared with the otic capsule of man. Area, perimeter and diameter of vessels, radius of tissue cylinder, circumscribing hexagon, intervascular distance, and O2 exchange area were evaluated. A correlation between occurrence and expansion of the interglobular spaces ('Interglobularräume') on the one hand and vascularization of the endochondral layer on the other hand was found. This corresponds to results of other authors concerning the persistence of cartilage observed in tissue cultures and long bones.