[Treatment of acute inner ear deafness (sudden deafness and acoustic trauma) (author's transl)]

The principal facts concerning therapeutic measures in cases of sudden deafness and acoustic trauma are outlined. Experiment data concerning the pharmacology of inner ear circulation are presented. There is sufficient evidence for a critical evaluation of a few treatments whose effect seems to be proven (experimental increase of inner ear circulation in normal animals) or at least possible (in normal animals no or dubious increase; effective under pathological conditions only?). Experimental and clinical experiences concerning the dextran treatment of sudden deafness and acoustic trauma are reported.