Abstract

Background and Objectives: In this research, movements of mouse after labyrinthectomy were analyzed to determine the degree of vestibular dysfunction and compensation. Materials and Methods: By using an infrared lamp, mouse movements were recorded for 100 seconds in a dark room. The experimental area was manufactured as a circular space with a diameter of 60 cm. The movements of five mice labyrinthectomized on right side were observed and recorded at 3 hours, 9 hours and 120 hours after the operation, and also the ten mice of control group. Results: The differences between the total moving distances and the rotating angle from the origin that set the center of round field between groups were analyzed with pictures of 1 frame per second. It is concluded that all 4 groups show significant differences between its mean rotation angle and total moving distances statistically. At 9 hours after right labyrinthectomy, mice tended to turn clockwise; but at 120 hours, there was no significant difference between clockwise and counter-clockwise rotation. Conclusion: Measuring the movement of mouse in round free field can be the proper method to determine the degree of vestibular dysfunction and vestibular compensation. This test was time-saving and cost-effective method.

• Keywords: Mouse;Vestibular function;Behavior test;Labyrinthectomy