Preparation of Small Temporal Bones for High-Resolution Light Microscopy

A technique was used for rapid processing of small temporal bones for high-resolution light microscopy. Temporal bones were decalcified in edetic acid and embedded in glycol methacrylate. Sections (thickness, 1 μm) were stained with a variety of stains that demonstrated cellular details not usually seen with conventional methods. This technique is suitable for routine histologic, histochemical, and radioautographic studies of small temporal bones.