Trummiõõnde

Trummiõõnde, also known as the tympanic cavity, is an air-filled space within the temporal bone of the skull. It is located in the middle ear, medial to the eardrum (tympanic membrane). The trummiõõnde is lined with a mucous membrane and plays a crucial role in hearing.

The cavity communicates with the nasopharynx via the Eustachian tube, also called the auditory tube. This connection allows pressure equalization between the middle ear and the outside environment, which is essential for proper eardrum vibration. The trummiõõnde also connects to the mastoid air cells, a group of air-filled spaces in the mastoid process of the temporal bone.

Within the trummiõõnde are the three ossicles: the malleus (hammer), incus (anvil), and stapes (stirrup). These small bones transmit vibrations from the eardrum to the oval window, an opening into the inner ear. The precise arrangement and movement of these ossicles are critical for amplifying and conducting sound waves.

The trummiõõnde is susceptible to infections, such as otitis media, which can cause pain, hearing loss, and other complications. The integrity and proper function of the trummiõõnde are therefore vital for maintaining healthy hearing.