Acoustic reflex contraction of the stapedius muscle stiffens the middle-ear, thus decreasing middle-ear admittance; this can be measured thanks to tympanometry. The acoustic stapedius reflex can also be recorded by means of extratympanic manometry (ETM). As the stapedius muscle is innervated by the facial nerve, a measurement of the reflex can be used to locate the injury on the nerve. If the injury is distal to the stapedius muscle, the reflex is still functional. A measurement of the reflex can also be used to suggest a retrocochlear lesion (e.g., vestibular schwannoma, acoustic neuroma). The acoustic reflex normally occurs only at relatively high
The Human Body (TV series) July 2001 and includes a 50-minute feature on "The Making of the Human Body" - A final overview that reveals the techniques and developments that made the series possible. The series was adapted into a film released for IMAX cinemas. The film won the Giant Screen Theatre Association's Best Film For Lifelong Learning award. The book accompanying the series was written by Anthony Smith. According to one review, "Smith transcends anatomical trivia to record our bodies' powerful tale with empathy and clarity." The Human Body (TV series) The Human Body is a seven-part documentary series, first shown on 20 May