Microcirculation in the labyrinth.

The inner ear is unique in the number and variety of specialized microvascular networks that furnish blood to its parts. Four distinct capillary networks arranged in parallel supply the structures of the outer wall, and four others those of the spiral lamina. Most of the capillaries are surrounded by pericapillary spaces favoring filtration and reabsorption of fluid. In the guinea pig those of the spiral prominence and outer sulcus show a special pericapillary tissue. The strial capillaries are larger in diameter and are closely invested by strial cells. The blood within them has a higher hematocrit and flows more slowly than elsewhere in the labyrinth. The arcades of the tympanic lip and basilar membrane receive occasional innervation by fine unmyelinated nerve fibers. A possible role of prostaglandins in controlling the tone of the cochlear microvasculature is suggested. Although it appears unlikely that vascular lesions within the labyrinth could be responsible for the hydrops of Menière's syndrome, devascularization and atrophy of the endolymphatic sac might be contributory factors.