The oval window of the middle ear is in contact with which structure of the inner ear?

• A Scala tympani of the cochlea
• B Scala vestibuli (perilymph) via the vestibule ✓
• C Endolymphatic sac
• D Semicircular canal ampulla

Explanation

The oval window (fenestra vestibuli) is closed by the footplate of the stapes and opens into the vestibule, which is in communication with the scala vestibuli of the cochlea filled with perilymph. Sound vibrations transmitted through the ossicular chain (malleus-incus-stapes) push the stapes footplate, creating pressure waves in the perilymph of the scala vestibuli. The round window (fenestra cochleae) acts as a pressure release membrane and opens into the scala tympani.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.