Sulcus spiralis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Sulcus spiralis is a structure found in the cochlea of the inner ear. It is a spiral groove that separates the scala vestibuli and the scala media. The sulcus spiralis is divided into two parts: the sulcus spiralis internus and the sulcus spiralis externus.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The sulcus spiralis is a spiral-shaped groove that runs along the cochlea. It is divided into two parts: the sulcus spiralis internus and the sulcus spiralis externus. The sulcus spiralis internus is located on the inner side of the cochlea, while the sulcus spiralis externus is located on the outer side.

The sulcus spiralis separates the scala vestibuli, which is filled with perilymph, from the scala media, which is filled with endolymph. This separation is important for the proper functioning of the cochlea, as it allows for the different fluids to interact in a way that enables the detection of sound.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the sulcus spiralis is to separate the scala vestibuli and the scala media. This separation allows for the different fluids in these two spaces to interact, which is crucial for the detection of sound.

When sound waves enter the ear, they cause the basilar membrane to vibrate. This vibration causes the perilymph in the scala vestibuli to move, which in turn causes the endolymph in the scala media to move. This movement of the endolymph stimulates the hair cells in the organ of Corti, which then send signals to the brain that are interpreted as sound.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Damage to the sulcus spiralis can result in hearing loss. This can occur as a result of trauma, infection, or degenerative diseases such as Meniere's disease. Treatment for damage to the sulcus spiralis typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the damage.

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD