With the mouth open, this point is located in the depression between the middle of the tragus and the condyloid process of the mandible.

• A. SI 18
• B. SI 17
• C. SI 19
• D. SI 16

Answer: (A)

This item tests how you map an acupuncture point to precise facial landmarks using jaw movement. The depression between the middle of the tragus and the condyloid (jaw) bone, when the mouth is open, is a classic locator for a Small Intestine channel point known as Tinggong (SI-19). The mouth being open makes the condyloid process protrude slightly, creating that distinct hollow you palpate just in front of the ear. That exact spot is Tinggong, which is why this description matches the point on the Small Intestine channel. Tinggong is traditionally used for ear-related issues and jaw disorders, so identifying it by this specific landmark helps ensure accurate needle placement. The other listed sites are in different facial regions or along the jaw/cheek area and don’t correspond to this particular tragus–condyle depression, so they don’t fit the stated description.