Silver/silver chloride microneedles can detect penetration through the round window membrane.

Hypothesis: Silver-plated microneedles can be used to confirm penetration of semi-permeable membranes such as the round window membrane (RWM) by detection of voltage change at the moment of perforation.

Background: The introduction of microperforations in the RWM can significantly enhance intracochlear delivery of therapeutics. However, the moment of needle penetration through the RWM cannot be reliably detected by visualization or sensation alone.

Microperforations significantly enhance diffusion across round window membrane.

Hypothesis: Introduction of microperforations in round window membrane (RWM) will allow reliable and predictable intracochlear delivery of pharmaceutical, molecular, or cellular therapeutic agents.

Background: Reliable delivery of medications into the inner ear remains a formidable challenge. The RWM is an attractive target for intracochlear delivery.