Computer-generated three-dimensional reconstruction of the cochlea.

Abstract

Computer-generated three-dimensional reconstructions of the nerve fibers from the organ of Corti to the spiral ganglion were used to determine the optimum maximal length of the cochlear implant electrode. The spiral ganglion within the modiolus is much shorter than the organ of Corti. The spiral ganglion has 1 3/4 turns and reaches no higher than the middle of the second turn of the organ of Corti, which has 2 3/4 turns. The spiral ganglion is concentric and basal with respect to the organ of Corti. The spiral ganglion dendrites within the osseous spiral lamina of the basal turn project radially, nearly perpendicular to the central axis of the modiolus. Upon entering the modiolus, they turn basally at an angle of approximately 120 degrees. The projection of dendrites within the osseous spiral lamina became increasingly oblique as the ganglion extended apically. The organization of the cochlear nerve results from the spiraling of the ganglion. These findings are in agreement with previous reports. Implications of these findings and their possible relevance to the optimum length of the cochlear implant electrode are discussed with reference to cochlear damage resulting from longer electrodes.