modiolus
Definition
Noun: 1. The central conical bony pillar of the cochlea: In anatomy, the modiolus is the central, cone-shaped, spongy bone that forms the axis around which the spiral canal of the cochlea winds. It contains the auditory nerve fibers and blood vessels.
Usage
The term is used exclusively in anatomical and medical contexts to describe this specific structure of the inner ear. - The modiolus provides structural support to the delicate cochlear duct. - Nerve fibers from the spiral ganglion pass through the modiolus.
Advanced Usage
- "Axis of the cochlea": A descriptive synonym emphasizing its central, pivotal role.
- The modiolus acts as the axis of the cochlea.
Variants and Related Words
- Cochlea (noun): The spiral-shaped cavity of the inner ear containing the organ of hearing (Corti).
- Osseous spiral lamina (noun): A bony shelf that projects from the modiolus into the cochlear canal.
Synonyms
- Central pillar of the cochlea
- Cochlear axis
Related Terms (Anatomical)
- Spiral ganglion: The collection of nerve cell bodies located within the modiolus.
- Scala tympani / Scala vestibuli: The perilymph-filled chambers of the cochlea that flank the central cochlear duct.
Noun
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the central conical bony pillar of the cochlea
