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The Eustachian tube (/ j uː ˈ s t eɪ ʃ ən /), also called the auditory tube or pharyngotympanic tube, [1] is a tube that links the nasopharynx to the middle ear, of which it is also a part. In adult humans, the Eustachian tube is approximately 35 mm (1.4 in) long and 3 mm (0.12 in) in diameter. [2]
If middle ear pressure remains low, the eardrum (tympanic membrane) may become retracted into the middle ear. [citation needed] One of the functions of the Eustachian tubes that connect the middle ear to the nasopharynx is to help keep middle ear pressure the same as air pressure.
The nasopharynx is lined by respiratory epithelium that is pseudostratified, columnar, and ciliated. Polyps or mucus can obstruct the nasopharynx, as can congestion due to an upper respiratory infection. The auditory tube, which connects the middle ear to the pharynx, opens into the nasopharynx at the pharyngeal opening of the auditory tube ...
The middle ear contains the three small bones—the ossicles—involved in the transmission of sound, and is connected to the throat at the nasopharynx, via the pharyngeal opening of the Eustachian tube. The inner ear contains the otolith organs—the utricle and saccule—and the semicircular canals belonging to the vestibular system, as well ...
The torus tubarius (or torus of the auditory tube) is an elevation of the mucous membrane of the nasal part of the pharynx formed by the underlying base of the cartilaginous portion of the Eustachian tube (auditory tube). The torus tubarius is situated behind the pharyngeal orifice of the auditory tube.
The tensor veli palatini tenses the soft palate and by doing so, assists the levator veli palatini in elevating the palate to occlude and prevent entry of food into the nasopharynx during swallowing. The tensed palate consequently provides a stable platform for elevation of the pharynx during swallowing by the pharyngeal muscles.
Its pharynx is connected to the mouth, allowing speech to occur, and food and liquid to pass down the throat. It is joined to the nose by the nasopharynx at the top of the throat, and to the ear by its Eustachian tube. [4] The throat's trachea carries inhaled air to the bronchi of the lungs.
Facing the inner ear, the medial wall (or labyrinthic wall, labyrinthine wall) is vertical, and has the oval window and round window, the promontory, and the prominence of the facial canal. Facing the outer ear , the lateral wall (or membranous wall ), is formed mainly by the tympanic membrane , partly by the ring of bone into which this ...