Some Practical and Theoretical Points in Labyrinthology

Abstract

The work of Steinhausen in Greifswald on the function of the cupula ( Pflüger's Archiv, 1933, Band 232, Heft 4) is of extreme value in the conception of the physiological mechanism of the labyrinth. Extension of this work by measurement of the exact relationship between the movements of the endolymph in the canals and the bending of the cupula. Demonstration by means of pictures, etc. Comparison of the three methods of examination of the peripheral labyrinth. The time of the post-rotational nystagmus, the duration of the nystagmus after applying a constant pressure to a fistula, the time during which the caloric nystagmus continues after changing position of the head from Brüning's optimum to minimum position—all are comparable quantities and are times of about the same length, and all seem to be due to the elasticity of the cupula. The galvanic reaction: why it does not give practical results: the theory and technique of chronaxiemetrie: a new method of obtaining an exact estimation of the chronaxie of the vestibular nerve and the possibility of the practical use of this method. Demonstration of apparatus for determining the vestibular chronaxie, and of instruments for the exact registration of the eye-movements during nystagmus.