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. 2015 Sep;10(3):118-124.
doi: 10.1016/j.joto.2015.11.002. Epub 2015 Nov 14.

Characteristic anatomical structures of rat temporal bone

Peng Li  1   2 , Kelei Gao  2   3 , Dalian Ding  1   2   3 , Richard Salvi  2   3
Affiliations

Characteristic anatomical structures of rat temporal bone

Peng Li et al. J Otol. 2015 Sep.

Abstract

As most gene sequences and functional structures of internal organs in rats have been well studied, rat models are widely used in experimental medical studies. A large number of descriptions and atlas of the rat temporal bone have been published, but some detailed anatomy of its surface and inside structures remains to be studied. By focusing on some unique characteristics of the rat temporal bone, the current paper aims to provide more accurate and detailed information on rat temporal bone anatomy in an attempt to complete missing or unclear areas in the existed knowledge. We also hope this paper can lay a solid foundation for experimental rat temporal bone surgeries, and promote information exchange among colleagues, as well as providing useful guidance for novice researchers in the field of hearing research involving rats.

Keywords: Anatomy; Rat; Temporal bone.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Landmarks of rat temporal bone. A. Lateral view of rat cranium. B. Lateral view of rat temporal bone. C. Inside view of rat cranium. D. Medial side of rat temporal bone. E. Bottom of rat cranium. F. Bottom view of rat temporal bone.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
The lateral and medial walls of rat middle ear cavity. A. Lateral view of tympanic membrane. B. Medial side of tympanic membrane. C. Medial wall of rat tympanic cavity. D. View of medial wall of tympanic cavity without malleus and incus.
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Rat ossicular chain. A. Entire ossicular chain and joints. B. Separated ossicular bones.
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Osseous and membranous labyrinth in rat. A. Osseous labyrinth. B. Exposure of cochlear membranous labyrinth, saccule and utricle in vestibular cavity and membranous ampullae of superior and lateral semicircular canals. C. Exposure of cochlear basilar membrane, maculae of saccule and utricle, and ampulla of posterior semicircular canal. D. Hand gestures depicting relations among utricle and three semicircular canals.
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