[Pseudo-three dimensional observation of the organ of Corti in the guinea pig using scanning electron microscopy]

The entire organ of Corti of guinea pig was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), using it's high resolving power to observe the three dimensional fine structure of the cochlea. Inner ear tissue of the normal guinea pig was conductively stained (OTOTO-method) for SEM. The relationship between the sensory cells and supporting cells was shown. SEM gives a nice overview of the surface structure of three dimensional organs like the inner ear. We conclude that bulk specimens of the organ of Corti are more advantageous than piece specimens in acoustic physiological as well as pathological research studies.