TYMPANIC MEMBRANE:
THE CONE OF LIGHT
| Description |
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The most striking landmark in the tympanic membrane is the handle of the malleus which can be seen extending downwards and backwards ending at the umbo. The umbo forms the apex of the triangular "cone of light:' The lower end of the long process of the incus and its articulation with the head of the stapes often can be seen through the posterosuperior quadrant of a thin and transparent normal drum. The chorda tympani nerve frequently is visible behind the posterior quadrant of the tympanic membrane as it passes anteriorly just medial to the tympanic membrane between the handle of the malleus and the long process of the incus. |
