The membranous labyrinth and its compartments can be seen clearly in relation to the 5 vestibular end organs, the 2 divisions of the vestibular nerve and the facial nerve. Note the orientation of the maculae of the utricle and saccule, the complex form of the utricle, and the increasing diameter of the scala media from hook to apex. Anatomy will build around the labyrinth to create a trans-canal surgical view so that the true position of the labyrinth in the surgical field can be appreciated.

A virtual trip entering the temporal bone through the cochlear aqueduct and arriving in the scala tympani behind the round window membrane. The scala tympani is followed to the apex. At the end of the sequence the asymmetric stacking of the cochlear coils can be appreciated.

Take a look around the vestibule to appreciate the complex shape of the utricle, saccule and their relationships to the semicircular ducts, then entering the utricle follow the common crus and the posterior semicircular duct through the posterior ampulla and into the vestibule again.