MICRO-MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF THE INNER-EAR IN THE GUINEA-PIG

We applied a magnetic resonance microscopy at 7.05 T with a gradient c oil unit to image the fine structure of the guinea pig cochlea, First, a three-dimensional MR image of the surface of the cochlea was obtain ed to select the location of cross-sectional images, Then, cross-secti onal images of the basal turn, the second turn and the apical turn of the cochlea were obtained, Based upon the different protein concentrat ions of the endolymph vs the perilymph, the scala vestibuli, scala tym pani and the cochlear duct could be clearly distinguished. This allowe d a determination of the location of both the basilar membrane and Rei ssner's membrane. We raise the possibility that MRM may become useful in the diagnosis of endolymphatic hydrops (Meniere's disease). (C) 199 7 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.