This epithelial structure separates the external from the middle ear. Below the stratified keratinising outer epithelium is a connective tissue lamina propria, with a cuboidal mucosal epithelium on the inner surface. The tympanic membrane is divided into the '''pars flaccid''' dorsorostrally, which lies next to the '''manubrium of the malleus''', and the '''pars tensa''' ventrally. The C-shaped manubrium inserts into the '''lamina propria''', extending towards the middle of the pars tensa. Foreign bodies and other damage (severe otitis externa, ascending pathology from middle ear) can result in rupture of the tympanic membrane in the pars tensa region. Defects of the tympanic membrane heal by epithelial migration bridging over the defect, then development of a granulation bed below. | This epithelial structure separates the external from the middle ear. Below the stratified keratinising outer epithelium is a connective tissue lamina propria, with a cuboidal mucosal epithelium on the inner surface. The tympanic membrane is divided into the '''pars flaccid''' dorsorostrally, which lies next to the '''manubrium of the malleus''', and the '''pars tensa''' ventrally. The C-shaped manubrium inserts into the '''lamina propria''', extending towards the middle of the pars tensa. Foreign bodies and other damage (severe otitis externa, ascending pathology from middle ear) can result in rupture of the tympanic membrane in the pars tensa region. Defects of the tympanic membrane heal by epithelial migration bridging over the defect, then development of a granulation bed below. |