A Technique for Freeze-Fracturing of the Organ of Corti

Abstract

A modification of the conventional method of freeze-fracturing is described. By the use of polyvinyl-alcohol, a high viscous fluid, the organ of Corti is better stabilized in the specimen holder. This fluid also facilitates a clean fracture through the organ of Corti proper and in a high number of cases gives a large replica void of contaminating biological tissue and free of folds. Examples of results produced with this technique are demonstrated.