[Micro-CT imaging of guinea pig cochlear].

OBJECTIVE

To employ micro-CT equipment for nondestructive three-dimensional (3D) imaging of internal ear.

METHODS

The guinea pigs were anesthetized by napental and bilateral cochleas harvested. Cochlea was fixed in glutaraldehyde before scanning of micro-CT. Two-dimensional (2D) images were acquired for a 3D model of reconstruction.

RESULTS

The 2D images was distinct enough to visualize vestibular gallery, scala media, scala tympani, Reissner's membrane, velum, organ of Corti and spiral ganglion, etc. The 3D structure model was excellent for viewing and free to revolve in any axial direction.

CONCLUSIONS

Micro-CT may allow nondestructive three-dimensional imaging of internal ear. As compared with the traditional method of morphology, this approach is able to save samples, easy to operate and has a high resolution. And it is more easily popularized than the synchrotron radiation approach.