Korvakanava

Korvakanava, often equated with the external auditory canal, is the passage that carries sound from the auricle to the tympanic membrane. In adults, it is about 2.5 cm long and consists of a lateral cartilaginous portion and a medial bony portion, forming an S-shaped tube that extends from the external ear opening to the eardrum.

The canal is lined with skin that contains hair follicles and ceruminous and sebaceous glands. The cerumen (earwax) and the skin’s migration toward the tympanic membrane help protect the middle ear by trapping dust and providing antimicrobial properties.

Functionally, korvakanava serves as a conduit for sound transmission and as a protective barrier. It also helps maintain the eardrum’s environment, with airflow and moisture regulation playing minor roles.

Embryology and development: the external auditory canal forms from the first pharyngeal cleft and surrounding mesenchyme, with continued growth and canalization during childhood. In many individuals the canal widens and straightens somewhat with growth.

Clinical relevance: the canal can be affected by infections and obstructions. Otitis externa refers to inflammation of the ear canal, commonly due to infection or moisture exposure. Cerumen impaction can cause hearing reduction or discomfort. Other conditions include foreign bodies, canal stenosis or atresia, exostoses or osteomas in the bony portion, and rare tumors.

Diagnosis is usually by otoscopic examination. Treatment depends on the condition and may include cleaning, cerumen removal, or topical medications under medical supervision. Prevention focuses on protecting the ear canal from moisture overexposure and avoiding forceful insertion of objects.