During stapes surgery, the surgeon elevates a tendon as it emerges from a small bony projection on the posterior wall of the middle ear before it attaches to the stapes. From which structure does the stapedius tendon emerge?

• A Processus cochleariformis
• B Facial recess
• C Ponticulus
• D Pyramidal eminence ✓

Explanation

The stapedius muscle lies within the pyramidal eminence, a hollow conical projection on the posterior wall of the middle ear near the facial canal, and its tendon emerges at the apex to insert on the neck of the stapes. The processus cochleariformis is on the anterior wall and hooks the tensor tympani tendon, which kills the most tempting distractor.

Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.