The malleus, or hammer, is the largest of the three ossicles. The club-shaped superior part is called the head. On its posterior surface, the head articulates with the incus. The neck (collum) separates the head from the handle (manubrium). A small lateral process projects from the superolateral aspect of the manubrium and is readily visible as a bulge in the tympanic membrane.
This malleus is photographed next to a penny to show its relative size
Anterior surface of the malleus
Posterior surface of the malleus. Note the articular facet for the incus.
OTOLARYNGOLOGY HOUSTON
Bechara Y. Ghorayeb, MD
Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery
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