External Acoustic Meatus: Anatomy & Function

External acoustic meatus

- Canal leading from the auricle to the tympanic membrane

- About 2.5cm long

- Extends medially and slightly upwards

- Divided into two parts:

- Lateral, cartilaginous part – formed by the elastic cartilage. Its shape prevents easy entry of water into the meatus

- Medial, bony part – formed by the temporal bone. Its medial end leads into the middle ear by the tympanic membrane