The umbo in the ear is the central, most depressed point on the tympanic membrane (eardrum). It marks the end of the manubrium (handle) of the malleus (one of the small bones in the middle ear).
Here's a breakdown:
- The manubrium of the malleus is attached to the medial surface of the tympanic membrane.
- This attachment pulls the anterior and inferior portion of the tympanic membrane medially, giving it a conical shape.
- The umbo is the central point of maximum depression of this cone and it marks the end of the manubrium.
