What is the trapezoid body?

The trapezoid body is a nerve fiber pathway in the lower brainstem that decussates from one hemisphere to the other. The trapezoid body contains a nucleus, called the nucleus of the trapezoid body.

How is the trapezoid body formed?

The trapezoid body is formed by the convergence of fibers from the cochlear nuclei. These fibers cross the midline and ascend to the superior olivary complex.

What is the trapezoid body of the pons?

The trapezoid body is located in the pons, which is a part of the brainstem. The trapezoid body is named for its trapezoidal shape.

What are the 2 pathways of hearing?

There are two pathways of hearing: the ipsilateral pathway and the contralateral pathway. The ipsilateral pathway sends information from the cochlea to the ipsilateral superior olivary complex. The contralateral pathway sends information from the cochlea to the contralateral superior olivary complex.

The trapezoid body is involved in the contralateral pathway of hearing. The fibers of the trapezoid body cross the midline and ascend to the contralateral superior olivary complex. The superior olivary complex is involved in the processing of sound localization.