The tympanic cavity is a small cavity surrounding the bones of the middle ear. Within it sit the ossicles, three small bones that transmit vibrations used in the detection of sound.

Structure

On its lateral surface, it abuts the external auditory meatus (ear canal) from which it is separated by the tympanic membrane (eardrum).

Walls

The tympanic cavity is bounded by:

Development

It is formed from the tubotympanic recess, an expansion of the first pharyngeal pouch.

Clinical significance

If damaged, the tympanic membrane can be repaired in a procedure called tympanoplasty. Should fluid accumulate within the middle ear as the result of infection or for some other reason, it can be drained by puncturing the tympanic membrane with a large bore needle (tympanocentesis).

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