Visualization1.mp4

Synchrotron radiation phase contrast imaging was used to image the intact, unstained, non-decalcified human temporal bone and the encased cochlea. Visualization 1 orients the viewer to the locations of the cochlea and the internal auditory meatus, through which the vestibulocochlear nerve travels from the cochlea and vestibular organs to the brain. The viewer is "flown" through the internal auditory meatus to facilitate improved visualization of the three trunks of the vestibulocochlear nerve, and the individual nerve fiber bundles and cochlear vessels traveling to and from the inner ear structures. 3D volumetric reconstructions and endoscopic fly-through video were rendered in OsiriX (Pixmeo SARL, Bernex, Switzerland). These experiments were approved by the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Human Studies committee and Western University.