Osseous labyrinth

Osseous Labyrinth

The osseous labyrinth is a complex structure in the inner ear that plays a crucial role in the human sense of balance and hearing. It is composed of three main parts: the vestibule, the semicircular canals, and the cochlea.

Structure

The osseous labyrinth is a bony canal in the temporal bone of the skull, filled with a fluid called perilymph. It is lined with a delicate, membranous structure known as the membranous labyrinth, which is filled with a different fluid called endolymph.

Vestibule

The vestibule is the central part of the osseous labyrinth, and it is where the semicircular canals and the cochlea connect. It contains two important structures: the utricle and the saccule, which are responsible for detecting gravity and linear acceleration.

Semicircular Canals

The semicircular canals are three bony, fluid-filled tubes in the inner ear. They are responsible for detecting rotational movements. Each canal is oriented at a different angle and is sensitive to different directions of rotation.

Cochlea

The cochlea is a spiral-shaped part of the inner ear, responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.

Function

The osseous labyrinth plays a crucial role in two senses: hearing and balance. The cochlea is involved in hearing, while the vestibule and semicircular canals are involved in balance.

Clinical Significance

Diseases and conditions that affect the osseous labyrinth can lead to symptoms such as vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. These include Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis, and labyrinthitis.

See Also

• Inner ear
• Vestibular system
• Cochlea