Nouvelles

News

Ossicles of the middle ear (Malleus, Incus, Stapes)

In the middle ear, we find three ossicles (figure: from left to right):

  • Incus
  • Malleus
  • Stapes

Their role is to mechanically amplify the vibrations of the tympanic membrane and transmit them to the cochlea where they can be interpreted as sound. They articulate with each other via tiny synovial joints.

Interestingly, they are the only bones in the body that do not grow after birth.

Contra-indication for ear canal irrigation

  • The condition of the eardrum is not known.
  • The eardrum is perforated.
  • The patient has already undergone otologic surgery (like tympanostomy tubes).
  • Presence of a pointed or sharp foreign body in the ear canal.
  • Absence of a space around the object stuck in the ear canal.
  • There is a live insect in the ear.
  • There is a battery in the ear.
  • The ear contains soft objects,