Visualizing motions within the cochlea's organ of Corti and illuminating cochlear mechanics with optical coherence tomography

Beginning in 2006, optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been adapted for use as a vibrometer for hearing research. The application of OCT in this field, particularly for studying cochlear mechanics, represents a revolutionary advance over previous technologies. OCT provides detailed evidence of the motions of components within the organ of Corti, extending beyond the first-encountered surface of observation. By imaging through the bony capsule as well as through the round window membrane, OCT has measured vibration at multiple locations along the cochlear spiral, in vivo, under nearly natural conditions. In this document, we present examples of recent research findings to illustrate the applications of OCT in studying cochlear mechanics in both normal and impaired ears.

从2006年开始，光学相干断层扫描（OCT）已被改造用于听力研究的振动测量仪。OCT在该领域的应用，特别是用于研究耳蜗力学，代表了相较于先前技术的革命性进步。OCT提供了柯蒂氏器内各部件运动的详细证据，超越了最初观察到的表面。通过对骨迷路以及圆窗膜进行成像，OCT在近乎自然的条件下，在体内测量了沿耳蜗螺旋的多个位置的振动。在本文中，我们列举近期研究成果的实例，以说明OCT在研究正常耳和受损耳的耳蜗力学方面的应用。