[Anatomical variations and anomalies of the musculus stapedius tendon. Study by scanning electron microscopy].

The authors used scanning electronic microscopy to investigate and define morphological characteristics of the musculus stapedius tendon: the opening through which the tendon protrudes at the eminentia pyramidalis and it can be found at its base. Fibers of the tendon may directly be attached to the bony surface of the stages or its prolongation of various forms and dimensions. In some cases the tendon fibrous bundles are more or less ossified. In one patient who was operate we found a congenital malformation manifested as absence of the tendon and deformation of the stapes. The tendon absence is found in 0.5% of cases.