Ontogenetic Explanation for Tegmen Tympani Dehiscence and Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence Association

Objectives To analyse the ontogeny of the superior semicircular canal and tegmen tympani and determine if there are common embryological factors explaining both associated dehiscence. Methods We analysed 77 human embryological series aged between 6 weeks and newborn. Preparations were serially cut and stained with Masson's trichrome technique. Results The tegmental prolongation of tegmen tympani and superior semicircular canal originate from the same structure, the otic capsule, and have the same type of endochondral ossification; while the extension of the squamous prolongation of tegmen tympani runs from the temporal squama and ossification is directly of intramembranous type. The nuclei of ossification of the superior and external semicircular canals and accessory of tegmen collaborate in the ossification of the tegmental extension and by growth extend to the tegmental prolongation. This fact plus the fact that both structures share a common layer of external periosteum could explain the coexistence of lack of bone coverage in tegmen and superior semicircular canal. Conclusion The development of the semicircular canal and tegmen tympani could explain the causes of the association of both dehiscences.