Anatomy of the Round Window Region With Relation to Selection of Entry Site Into the Scala Tympani

The aim of cochlear implantation is to safely insert an electrode array into the scala tympani (ST) while avoiding damage to surrounding structures. There is disagreement on the optimal way of entering the ST-the round window (RW) approach versus cochleostomy. Regardless of the chosen approach, it is vital to understand the regional anatomy, which is complex, difficult to conceptualize, and rarely dissected in temporal bone courses. The goal of this study was to examine the anatomy of the RW to gain more in-depth knowledge on the local relationships of the anatomical structures and propose an approach for entering the ST in cochlear implant surgery tailored to the encountered anatomy.

Cadaveric prevalence study and expert opinion with literature review.

Cadaveric temporal bone dissection (n = 13) by the first author assessing the RW anatomy.

The round window membrane (RWM) and the osseous spiral lamina (OSL) are curved structures, each with a horizontal and a vertical part. The two horizontal portions are very closely apposed. The relationship between the OSL and the RWM determines the best site for a cochleostomy, which if required is best placed anteroinferiorly to the RWM. The distance between the oval window inferior margin and the RW membrane is less than 2 to 3 mm. The ST initially extends inferiorly and medially to the RW.

The findings of our dissection have implications for cochlear implant surgery in aiming to avoid trauma to the OSL and basilar membrane and aid decision making in choosing the safest surgical approach.

5. Laryngoscope, 131:E598-E604, 2021.