Malleus: The 'Hammer' of Hearing, Often Removed in Cholesteatoma Surgery
The malleus, the largest of the three tiny bones in the middle ear, plays a crucial role in hearing. Known informally as the 'hammer' due to its shape, it transmits sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. However, in certain cases, it may need to be removed to treat cholesteatomas, a condition first described in the 19th century.
The malleus, measuring around eight millimeters in adults, consists of the head, neck, anterior process, lateral process, and manubrium. It works in conjunction with the incus and stapes to transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the oval window, enabling hearing.
In atticoantral disease, an inflammatory middle ear condition, the malleus and other bones in the ossicular chain can be affected by cholesteatoma, a non-cancerous skin growth. This can lead to hearing loss. While the malleus itself is unlikely to cause hearing loss due to its direct connection to the eardrum, it may need to be removed to eliminate cholesteatomas. This procedure, often performed by otolaryngologists, may require a second surgery for reconstruction.
The malleus, the 'hammer' of the middle ear, is vital for hearing. Although it's rarely the cause of hearing loss, it may need to be removed to treat cholesteatomas, a condition first documented in the 19th century. Surgeons continue to refine techniques for managing this condition and restoring hearing.
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