Dynamic Metabolism of Endolymphatic and Perilym-phatic System in the Inner Ear-Simultaneous Measurement of Hydrogen Clearance

H2 clearance in the endolymphatic and perilymphatic systems of the inner ear was measured simultaneously with a bi-channel hydrogen clearance monitor. Two special hydrogen-sensitive microelectrodes were applied to a small hole made in the stria vascularis and round window. All H2 clearance curves revealed monoexponential functions. The half life times (T1/2) of both endolymphatic and perilymphatic H2 clearances of 10 guinea pigs were examined in order to study these metabolic differences. The half life time of the endolymph was significantly shorter than that of the perilymph in non-treated animals. The influence of furosemide was also examined. The half life time of H2 clearance in 10 guinea pigs was not significantly different before and after the infusion in either the endolymph or the perilymph. A personal computer (NEC PC-9801) and soft ware made by ourselves used to analyze these data.