Modiolus (/moʊˈdaɪələs/) is a term that refers to a small, bony cone located in the center of the inner ear, connecting the cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals. This term comes from the Latin word "modiolus," meaning "small measure" or "a small column." The spelling of "modiolus" is based on the traditional Latin spelling conventions, where each letter has only one pronunciation. The use of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) helps to explain the correct pronunciation of "modiolus" and prevent common spelling mistakes.
The term "modiolus" typically refers to a small, rounded, and somewhat conical bony structure located in the middle ear of mammals, particularly humans. It lies within the innermost part of the bony labyrinth, known as the cochlea, and serves as a central pillar or axis around which the cochlear duct winds spirally. The modiolus is made up of dense bone and contains numerous small canals known as modiolar canals or channels. These canals house blood vessels and nerves that provide vital sensory information to the cochlea.
Functionally, the modiolus plays a crucial role in the transmission of sound vibrations to the spiral ganglion cells in the cochlea. It helps to support the spiral structure of the cochlea and contains the spiral lamina, which forms part of the osseous spiral lamina. The spiral ganglion cells are responsible for transmitting auditory information from the hair cells of the cochlea to the brain through the auditory nerve.
Structurally and functionally, the modiolus is considered an important element in the complex auditory system, contributing to the processing and perception of sound.
Columella cochleae, the central cone-shaped core of spongy bone about which turns the spiral canal of the cochlea.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word modiolus has its origins in Latin. It comes from the Latin word modiolus, which means little measure or small vessel. The term modiolus was later borrowed into English to refer specifically to the bony structure found in the inner ear, known as the modiolus.