Anatomy of the Ear

Ear

10 cards   |   Total Attempts: 182
  

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Cards In This Set

Front Back
What is the components of the external ear and what are their function?
Pinna - directs sound into the auditory canal
Auditory canal - ends in the tympanic membrane it has ceruminous glands which secrete cerumen which along with hairs prevent the entry of pathogens.
What is the tympanic membrane and what does it do?
It is a thin semitransparent membrane which seperates the outer and middle ear. It convert sound waves into movement.
What connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx and what is its function?
Eustacian tube - it equalises pressure either side of the tympanic membrane.
Name the three bones of the middle ear in order and what is there function?
Malleus, incus, stapes - they have a large attachement to the tympanic membrane and a small attachment to the oval window which amplifies the sound wave.
What prevents damage from loud noises?
Tensor tympani - tightens the tympanic membrane


Stapedius - reduces movement of the stapes
Describe the layout of the inner ear?
It consists of a bony network called the bony labyrinth which encloses a membranous network called the membranous labyrinth.
What is perilymph?
CSF like fluid between the bony and membranous labyrinth.
What is endolymph?
Unique substance inside the membranous labyrinth.
Describe the different structures in the inner ear.
Vestibule - consists of the membranous utricle and saccule, detects gravity and linear acceleration
Semicircular canal - ant, lateral and post contain membranous ducts which detect rotation
Cochlea - contains cochlear duct sandwiched by perilymph, it contains receptors for hearing
Is the bony labyrinth continous?
No, it has two opening at the base of the cochleat spiral called the round window - partion between middle ear and cochlear perilymph, oval window - connects to the stapes.