Modiolus (cochlea)

Last revised by Daniel J Bell on 17 Nov 2021

The modiolus (plural: modioli) is part of the cochlea and is a conical-shaped structure that consists of spongy (porous) bone located in the center of the cochlea and contains the spiral ganglion.

The spiral lamina projects from the modiolus.

Abnormality of the modiolus results in sensorineural hearing loss.

History and etymology

The Latin word, "modiolus" means hub of a wheel, and is well-named, as in both the cochlea and at the angle of the mouth, the two modioli act as central foci around which other structures converge. Modiolus is a diminutive form of "modius" meaning a measure of grain (one sixth of a bushel) 2-4.

See also

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.