RESUMO
AIM: To study ultrastructural changes in stria's vascularis cells of inner ear and determine possible ways of correction. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The work was carried out on male guinea pigs. After completion of the experiment, stria vascularis of inner ear was subjected to electron microscopic examination. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: In the control group (receiving gentamycin sulfate in an ototoxic dose), signs of blood flow disturbance were revealed, as well as ultrastructural changes in stria's vascularis cells (expansion of intercellular space, deformation of organelles, thinning of glycocalyx, blebbing). Also, fragmented cells were found. These changes are characteristics for apoptosis. In experimental group (receiving gentamycin sulfate and melaxen), degenerative changes were less pronounced. An increase of cell's secretory activity was observed. CONCLUSION: Changes in stria's vascularis cells by using melaxen are less pronounced. Increase of cell's secretory activity in stria vascularis is a compensatory reaction and saves auditory function.