Malleus is hammer-shaped bone in middle ear, largest of three ossicles. Located between incus and eardrum, transmitting vibrations to inner ear. Works with other bones to protect against loud noises
Outer ear receives sound waves from air and consists of auricle, ear canal, and eardrum. Auricle includes helix, antihelix, crux helix, tragus, antitragus, concha, and lobule. Ear canal is S-shaped tube made of cartilage and bone, producing cerumen. Eardrum separates outer and inner ear, vibrating to transmit sound to brain
Cochlea is a fluid-filled, spiral-shaped structure in inner ear. Approximately 10mm wide, 35mm long when uncoiled. Contains three chambers: scala vestibuli, scala media, and scala tympani. Located behind eardrum, deep within middle ear
CT is preferred for middle ear pathologies. MRI is better for inner ear conditions. Normal variants should be reported for surgical safety
Acute otitis media causes rapid onset ear pain in children. Otitis media with effusion presents with fluid in middle ear. Chronic suppurative otitis media lasts over six weeks with discharge. All types may cause hearing loss, especially in children
Malleus is a hammer-shaped bone in middle ear. Connects with incus and attaches to inner surface of eardrum. Head is superior, handle is inferior. Contains lateral and anterior processes between neck and handle