Objective: This study sets out to demonstrate the normal developmental steps of the tegmen tympani and thus explains the typical localization of congenital tegmental defects.
Specimens: For this study, 79 macerated and formalin-fixed human temporal bones from 14th fetal week to adults were observed and prepared.
Intervention: Macroscopic and microscopic examination of the prenatal and postnatal changes of the tegmen tympani during its development.
Main outcome measure: Temporal bones from 14th fetal week to adults underwent descriptive anatomic studies to understand the normal development of the tegmen tympani and to find a possible cause of its congenital defects.
Results: The medial part of the tegmen tympani develops from the otic capsule during chondral ossification, thus forming the tegmental process of the petrous part. The lateral part shows membranous ossification. The tegmental process cases a temporary bony dehiscence lateral to the geniculate ganglion between the 23rd and 25th fetal week.
Conclusion: Congenital defects develop near the geniculate ganglion and seem to be due to an incomplete development of tegmental process of otic capsule. Because of that, congenital lesion of the tegmen tympani can be defined as an inner ear defect.