The Effect of Collagen Viscoelastoplasiticty on Reissner's Membrane Displacement: A Graphic Analysis.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of collagen viscoelastoplasticity on the bulge displacement of Reissner's membrane that is observed in endolymphatic hydrops and Meniere's disease.

METHODS

Viscoelastoplastic load-deformation characteristics for Reissner's membrane were based on a reported collagen polymer model of the cochleo-saccular membranes. The projected bulge displacements of Reissner's model membrane at key distention points were quantified trigonometrically and plotted graphically.

RESULTS

Initial deformation is characterized by a membrane laxity with substantial stretch at low tension with projected bulge displacement of Reissner's membrane approaching 30%. Intermediate deformation is characterized by a linear membrane stiffness with projected bulge displacement of Reissner's membrane in the range of 30-40%. Terminal deformation is characterized by reduced stiffness with a disproportionate increase in membrane stretch with projected bulge displacement of Reissner's membrane reaching a critical value of 50%, indicating a hemi-circular profile with imminent risk of rupture.

CONCLUSION

This collagen model of membrane viscoelastoplasticity demonstrates that at low pressure significant degrees of bulge displacement up to 30% can occur that may be reversible. The narrower 30-40% range of membrane displacement is one of the increasing deformity but without risk of rupture. Greater displacements approaching 50% indicate that the membrane is reaching a critical hemi-circular configuration with impending rupture.