Effect of hypertonic solutions on oxygen tension in the cochlear perilymph

1)Glyccrol

Abstract

The effect of glycerol on oxygen tension was studied in the cochlear perilymph of guinea pigs with a polarographic technique. Following a transient fall immediately after the intravenous administration of glycerol, the oxygen tension increased to reach a peak 10 minutes later, and then decreased gradually. These changes suggest alterations of the cochlear blood flow due to the local vasodilating effect of glycerol. The increase of oxygen tension and blood flow in the cochlea is considered to be one of the possible contributory factors in the improvement of hearing in patients with Meniere's disease after glycerol administration.