VIII. On the structure of the membrana tympani in the human ear

Abstract

In conducting researches into the pathological condition of the organ of hearing, I have been impressed with the necessity of ascertaining, with as much precision as possible, the intimate structure of the various tissues entering into its composition. The results to which investigations undertaken with this latter object in view have led me, in reference to the structure of the membrana tympani, it is the purpose of the present paper to detail. It will be observed that the conclusions at which I have arrived, differ materially in various important particulars from those of previous investigators. Examined from the exterior, inwards the membrana tympani consists of the following layers:— 1. The epidermis. 2. The proper fibrous layer, composed of— a . The lamina of radiating fibres. b . The lamina of circular fibres. 3. The mucous membrane (Plate III. fig. 1).