helicotrema

anatomy

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June 29, 2026

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The helicotrema is an opening at the apex of the cochlea that connects the scala vestibuli and the scala tympani. These two fluid-filled chambers are part of the inner ear's bony labyrinth. Sound vibrations entering the cochlea cause pressure waves in the perilymph, which travel through the scala vestibuli, pass through the helicotrema, and then move through the scala tympani to dissipate at the round window. This process is crucial for transmitting sound energy to the basilar membrane and the organ of Corti, where it is converted into nerve impulses for the brain to interpret as sound.12

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human ear
Structure of the cochlea
…of the cochlea, called the helicotrema, which can be seen if the cochlea is sliced longitudinally down the middle. At its basal end, near the middle ear, the scala vestibuli opens into the vestibule. The basal end of the scala tympani ends blindly just below the round window. Nearby is…
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…of the cochlea, called the helicotrema, which can be seen if the cochlea is sliced longitudinally down the middle. At its basal end, near the middle ear, the scala vestibuli opens into the vestibule. The basal end of the scala tympani ends blindly just below the round window. Nearby is…
Read More