MIDDLE EAR
Introduction
The middle ear is an air-filled cavity between the outer and inner ear. Main role:
Transmit and amplify sound from the external environment to the cochlea.
Eustachian Tube
Connection: Links middle ear to nasopharynx (upper throat).
Function:- Equalizes air pressure on both sides of tympanic
membrane
Auditory Muscles
Tensor Tympani : - Attaches to malleus.
Function: Tenses the tympanic membrane to dampen loud sounds.
Stapedius Muscle: - Attaches to stapes.
Function: Stabilizes the stapes and reduces vibration intensity.
Auditory Ossicles
Three small bones:
Malleus (hammer): Attached to the tympanic membrane.
Incus (anvil): Connects malleus to stapes.
Stapes (stirrup): Fits into the oval window of the inner ear.
Function: Amplify and convey sound vibrations from tympanic membrane to inner ear.
Tympanic Membrane (Eardrum)
Location: Separates external ear from middle ear.
Structure: Thin, semi-transparent membrane.
Function: Vibrates in response to sound waves and transmits vibrations to auditory ossicles.
