A series of animal experiments have been performed in an attempt to clarify the origin and fate of endolymph and perilymph, to determine possible pathways of fluid flow, and to attempt to discover the function of the cochlear aqueduct and endolymphatic sac. A. THE COCHLEAR AQUEDUCTThe cochlear aqueduct is a bony channel extending from the scala tympani of the basal turn near the round window to the cranial cavity near the ganglion of the glossopharyngeal nerve." Within the aqueduct is a loose network of connective tissue continuous with the arachnoid and extending into the scala tympani onto the round window membrane. This membranous tube may be termed the periotic duct; however, for simplicity, we will refer to the combined bony and membranous channel as the cochlear aqueduct.

Although using autogenous ossicles in reconstruction offers stable hearing results with good tendency for healing and minimal extrusion, their use in cholesteatomatous ears has been criticized for the possibility of progressive osteitis, bone resorption and cholesteatoma recurrence. In the present study we have been investigating a way which affords safe re-implantation of such ossicles. Treatment by burring followed by autoclaving seems to offer an implant that is safe both bacteriologically and pathologically. We have found no evidence that cholesteatoma could develop from such treated ossicles.

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Tympanic membrane tears have been found in about 20 % of casualties in modern combat (war of October 1973). Repair of the tears that do not seem to have the optimal chances for spontaneous healing should be undertaken during the first few days of trauma. This prompts healing, prevents complications, and obviates the need for future intervention.

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