Clinical Anatomy of the Epitympanum

Overview

The paper represents a review of the clinical anatomy of the epitympanum. The epitympanum consists of not only the epitympanum but Prussaks space. In the epitympanum we differentiate the anterior from the posterior epitympanum, which is further divided into medial and lateral. The interatticotympanic diaphragm divides the epitympanum and mesotympanum. It consists of a mucous membrane plica originating from the tensor fold and lateral incudomallear fold, from strong ligaments of the malleus and incus to the surrounding bony walls, and from the malleus capitulum, body and short process of the incus.

The main pathway of ventilation between the epitympanum and mesotympanum is provided by the isthmus tympani. There can be accessory pathways of ventilation such as isthmus tympani posterior, defects in the mucous membrane of the tensor fold or in the incudomallear fold. Prussaks space has an independent pathway for ventilation from the mesotympanum.

Understanding the pathophysiology and the problems of chronic middle ear inflammation is impossible without knowledge of the basic anatomy of the epitympanum.

Key words:
epitympanum, mesotympanum, middle ear inflammations, clinical anatomy.