extrastapesEtymologyFrom extra- + stapes.nounA cartilaginous structure connecting the stapes to the tympanic membrane in birds and reptiles“Abbreviations: ac, anterior crus; dp, dorsal process; htp, hypothetical tympanic process or ossified extrastapes, interpreted here as an artefact due to deformation; pc, posterior crus; qc, quadrate contact area; stf; stapedial foramen; stfp, stapedial footplate.”