[Computer image analysis in the study of endolymphatic hydrops].

In search for an objective method to be used to judge the extent of hydrops, computer image analysis system was used in the study on guinea pig endolymphatic hydrops. The image information of the whole cochlea was collected, then the length of Reissener's membrane and section area of scala media were calculated based upon parameters such as ratio factors and point values. The results were as follows: 1) Hydrops observed with light microscope had no statistical difference. 2) Within 55 days postoperatively, the hydrops grew more obvious with time. 3) The hydrops was more extensive in the basal turn than in the apical turn, though more conspicuous cytopathologic change was found in the apical turn. The conclusions: 1) The current technique is objective, accurate and reliable. 2) Both the length of Reissener's membrane and section area of scala media can be used to measure the extent of hydrops.