The Ear

Overview

The ear enables hearing and balance by converting sound and movement into neural signals. This section introduces the external, middle and inner ear, outlining how each region contributes to sound transmission and equilibrium.

Key Structures

Articles cover the external ear, middle ear ossicles, inner ear structures and the auditory tube. Each topic explains boundaries, functions and key anatomical relationships supported by diagrams and clinical notes.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Understanding ear anatomy is vital for interpreting hearing loss, vertigo and middle ear infection. The content links structure to function and highlights the importance of anatomy in examination and surgical practice.

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Labeled diagram of the anterior surface of the auricle (pinna) of the external ear.

The External Ear

Labelled diagram of the two main parts of the middle ear: the tympanic cavity and epitympanic recess.

The Middle Ear

Diagram of the components of the membranous labyrinth, highlighting structures relevant to the vestibulocochlear nerve and the inner ear.

The Inner Ear

The Eustachian (Auditory) Tube

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Encyclopaedia

Vastus Lateralis

by Roxanne Salkeld

Diagram illustrating the course and supply of the buccal nerve as it emerges between the heads of the lateral pterygoid muscle.
Encyclopaedia

Buccal Nerve

by Daaniyal Khawaja

Lateral view of the nasal septum highlighting the olfactory bulb and cribriform plate relationship.
The Cranial Nerves

The Olfactory Nerve (CN I) and Olfactory Pathway

by Kristen Davies