Term Category: Anatomy
The Incus is one of the three small bones in the middle ear, also known as the auditory ossicles. The incus is located between the malleus (hammer) and the stapes (stirrup). Its primary function is to transmit and amplify vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. This process plays a crucial role in the conversion of sound waves into mechanical vibrations, which are then translated into neural signals for the brain to interpret as sound.
The incus bone is essential for the auditory system's ability to efficiently transmit sound waves, allowing for the perception of a wide range of frequencies and volumes. Its unique shape and positioning enable it to effectively relay and modulate the vibrations received from the malleus to the stapes, contributing to the overall sensitivity and accuracy of the hearing process.