Ventral approach to the rat middle ear for otologic research.

Abstract

To describe a simple approach to the rat middle ear because there are few clear descriptions of this technique with minimal morbidity and mortality. Six male Long-Evans rats were used in this study. We designed a cervical approach to the middle ear with the purpose of creating an experimental model of ossiculoplasty that permits the postoperative survival of the animal. It was possible in all cases to visualize the majority of structures of the tympanic cavity: promontory, round window, stapedial artery, stapes, incus, and tympanic membrane. There were no cases of postoperative infection or facial paralysis. The ventral approach to the rat middle ear is a rapid and simple technique that makes the rat the animal of choice for many otologic investigations.