Ear Problems

Deafness

Ear Anatomy

The ear is a copmplex organ which can be divided into 3 areas: the outer ear comprising the pinna and ear canal; the middle ear containing the 3 bones of hearing (malleus, incus and stapes), and the inner ear comprising the cochlea and balance organs (semicircular canals, utricle and saccule). (see diagram)

Abnormalities in any of these areas can lead to problems with hearing.

1. Helix
2. Antihelix
3. Tympanic membrane (eardrum)