3-D Virtual Model of the Incudostapedial Joint Complex

The 3-D model is a surface rendering of the structures that make up the incudostapedial compex: stapedius tendon, stapes, distal incus including the pedicle and the plate, and the joint capsule. The model was created from 85 serial archival histological sections of the same 14 year old male in Temporal Bone and the Round Window models.

Several anatomical features become more obvious when viwed in 3-D;  in the distal incus, the bony connection to the plate by a pedicle of bone, the extent to which the capsular ligament wraps around the pedicle and plate, the notch in the bone of the distal incus on the anterior side below the level of the pedicle which corresponds to an extension of the capsule ligament on the anterior side.  There are more blood vessels on the anterior side of the distal incus.
An Audio Guide has been added to assist in observing the anatomical details.

1. Audio Guide part 1, 8 minutes, explaining how to use the model screen and to observe the anatomy.
2. Audio Guide part 2, details of the architecture of the stapes and the blood vessels of the distal incus.

Screen shots of 3-D model of the

Incudostapedial Joint