X-Ray Crystallographic Studies of Otosclerotic Bone

Abstract

Utilizing the diffraction phenomenon produced by X-rays, samples of normal ossicular chain and of bone removed anterior to the oval window were studied with reference to crystal structure, and this structure was compared -with that of footplates of the stapes of otosclerosis. The results indicate that the crystal structure of the normal ossicular chain does not differ from that of other human bone. Three types of crystal structure were found in the case of otosclerotic footplates, as follows: normal; complete absence of crystal(s); a structure definitely diverging from normal. A more detailed analysis of the results is in progress: it is still essential, at least, to compare them with clinical findings and with those based on histological examination.