The perilymphatic oxygen tension in the scala tympani was measured with a polarographic technique after various gases were insufflated into the middle ear cavity of 7 guinea pigs. Pure oxygen, insufflated into the middle ear cavity, easily permeated the round window membrane and elevated the perilymphatic oxygen tension. Oxygen transport to the inner ear, other than by the inner ear vessels, was confirmed. The inner ear function may partially be maintained by oxygenation through this route.

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