A visualization system for histological image annotation and 3D reconstruction of parametric geometries of the inner ear

The human cochlea is responsible for transducing mechanical stimuli to electrical signals. However, there are aspects of cochlear physiology that are not clearly understood and computational modeling has been recently used for this purpose. The computational approaches are usually based on artificial cochlea geometries, which present the cochlea as a box model. In this work, we present a system for the annotation of realistic histological images of the inner ear to reconstruct the cochlea structures using a realistic centerline. Using this approach the user can reconstruct as many structures are visible at the histological images or simplified geometries. The system gives the capabilities to modify the shape, size and length of the basilar membrane and scalae structures. Also, a visualization platform is provided. The approach can directly be used for modeling of inner ear mechanics implementing parametric design to understand accurately the mechanism of basilar membrane excitation from the mechanical stimuli of the pressure at the level of the stapes footplate.