[The influence of obliteration of external lymphatic space on the vestibule and the cochlea in guinea pigs].

Obliteration of the external lymphatic space on 18 guinea pigs was performed. The lymphatic space of the horizontal semicircular canal was blocked by fascia. Auditory (ABR) and vestibular functions were tested before and after the surgical obliteration. Morphologic changes in the cochlea and vestibule were observed under light microscope. It was found that there was no significant difference in the threshold of ABR before and after the operation. However, the sustained time of nystagmus was significantly decreased after the operation. Our results indicate that this surgical procedure may damage vestibular function, but produce no evident damage to the cochlear function.