The correct spelling of the word "vas spirale" uses the Latin alphabet and IPA phonetic transcription to accurately represent its pronunciation. The first word, "vas," is pronounced [væs], with the "a" sound similar to "cat." The second word, "spirale," is pronounced [spiˈraːle], with the stress on the second syllable and a long "a" sound in the last syllable similar to "bake." Together, "vas spirale" refers to the spiral duct that carries sperm from the testis to the urethra in male anatomy.
Vas spirale refers to the spiral duct located in the inner ear, specifically within the cochlea. The cochlea is a crucial component of the auditory system responsible for translating sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. Within this structure, the vas spirale plays a vital role in facilitating this intricate process.
Also known as the cochlear duct or scala media, the vas spirale is a fluid-filled cavity that runs longitudinally throughout the cochlea. It is bordered by two other canals, the scala vestibuli and scala tympani. The vas spirale is lined with a specialized sensory epithelium known as the organ of Corti, which is composed of thousands of hair cells and supporting cells.
The primary function of the vas spirale is to house the organ of Corti, which plays a fundamental role in converting sound waves into electrical signals. As sound travels through the cochlea, it causes fluid within the vas spirale to move, stimulating the hair cells. This activation triggers the release of neurotransmitters which are then picked up by the auditory nerve fibers and transmitted to the brain for processing.
Any impairment or damage to the vas spirale or the organ of Corti can result in hearing loss or various auditory disorders. Therefore, the intricate structure and function of the vas spirale hold significant importance in the field of audiology and the understanding of hearing processes.
A blood vessel, larger than its fellows, in the basilar membrane just beneath the tunnel of corti.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.