Plugging of a Dehiscent Superior Semicircular Canal Damages the Spiral Ganglion Regardless of the Material Used

The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential damage to the cochlea caused by plugging a dehiscent superior semicircular canal with different plugging materials in a histological animal study (gerbils). The authors assessed the extent of damage to the cochlea by measuring the number, size, and density of spiral ganglion neurons as well as the size of Rosenthal's canal. Study results indicate a significant reduction of spiral ganglion cells in the lower basal turn of the cochlea regardless of the type of plug used.