Differential actions of isoflurane and ketamine-based anaesthetics on cochlear function in the mouse

► Mouse cochlear function was compared between isoflurane and ketamine-based anaesthetics. ► Isoflurane increased ABR thresholds over time, input/output slope was unaffected. ► ABR thresholds were stable with ketamine-based anaesthetic. ► Isoflurane likely inhibits cochlear nerve fibre recruitment. ► Ketamine-induced DPOAE changes indicate an outer hair cell site of action.