mellomørebenene

The middle ear ossicles, commonly known as the ossicles or middle ear bones, are three small bones found in the tympanic cavity of the middle ear. Their primary function is to transmit sound vibrations from the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to the oval window of the inner ear. These bones are the malleus, incus, and stapes. The malleus, also called the hammer, is the outermost ossicle and is attached to the eardrum. It articulates with the incus, or anvil, which in turn articulates with the stapes, or stirrup. The stapes is the smallest bone in the human body and its footplate fits into the oval window. The movement of these ossicles amplifies the sound vibrations, allowing for efficient transfer of acoustic energy to the cochlea, where it is converted into neural signals. The articulation between the ossicles is a synovial joint, allowing for precise movement. Muscles, the tensor tympani and stapedius, are attached to the malleus and stapes respectively, and their contraction helps to dampen loud sounds, protecting the inner ear from damage. Together, the ossicles form a lever system that is crucial for hearing.