The internal auditory canal (IAC) is a narrow passageway in the temporal bone that transmits nerves and blood vessels to the inner ear. It connects the middle ear to the inner ear and contains the cochlea, vestibule, and other anatomical components involved in hearing and balance. Pathologies that can affect the ear include acoustic neuroma,…

Horizontal canal BPPV testing involves checking for dizziness induced by specific head movements that indicate displacement of crystals in the horizontal semicircular canal. The side-lying roll test is performed by lying on one side, rolling onto the other side, and then returning to the original position. If BPPV is present, the patient will experience positional…

Cholesteatoma is a benign but locally aggressive growth of skin within the external auditory canal, often misidentified as an infection. It can cause ear pain, hearing loss, tinnitus, and dizziness due to the accumulation of desquamated keratin and inflammatory debris. Otoscopy reveals a pearly mass behind an intact tympanic membrane, while CT scans and MRI…

Auditory canal resection involves the surgical removal of a portion or all of the external auditory canal to address otologic diseases such as cholesteatoma or glomus tympanicum tumors. The procedure requires a thorough understanding of the anatomical structures of the external auditory canal, middle ear, and internal auditory canal, including the facial nerve, cochlea, and…

Posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a condition characterized by brief episodes of vertigo caused by displaced otoconia in the posterior semicircular canal. It affects the vestibular system, which detects head movement and maintains balance. Symptoms often include dizziness, nystagmus (rapid eye movements), nausea, and vomiting. Diagnosis involves the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, and treatment…

Ear canal stenosis is a narrowing of the ear canal, causing difficulty hearing and discomfort. It can result from various factors, including congenital abnormalities, chronic inflammation, and trauma. Symptoms may include ear pain, hearing loss, itching, and aural fullness. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause to widen the ear canal and restore hearing function….

The alimentary canal comprises the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine, each with specialized histological features. The esophageal lining protects against reflux and abrasion, while the stomach’s gastric pits secrete digestive enzymes. The small intestine’s villi and microvilli maximize absorption, and the large intestine’s goblet cells produce mucus for protection. Layers of the gastrointestinal…

Acoustic neuroma surgery recovery involves a multidisciplinary care team including neurosurgeons, otologists, and physical therapists. Patients undergo post-operative care, pain management, facial nerve rehabilitation, and hearing loss management. Support organizations like the Acoustic Neuroma Association provide resources and emotional support. Specialized clinics and hospitals offer advanced treatment options such as craniotomy, microsurgery, and radiosurgery. Research…

Horizontal canal BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) is a type of vertigo caused by dislodged calcium crystals (otoconia) in the horizontal semicircular canal of the inner ear. This can result in intense, brief episodes of spinning vertigo, triggered by specific head positions, such as lying down or rolling over in bed. Symptoms typically last less…

External auditory canal cancer, a rare malignancy within the ear, originates in the skin lining the outer ear canal. Risk factors include excessive sun exposure, smoking, and chronic infections. Early symptoms may include ear pain, discharge, and hearing loss. Diagnosis involves a physical exam, imaging, and biopsy. Treatment typically consists of surgical excision, radiation therapy,…

For horizontal canal BPPV, the Dix-Hallpike maneuver is typically performed, which involves turning the patient’s head 45 degrees to the affected side while lying supine, then quickly sitting up and hanging the head over the edge of the bed. This maneuver aims to reposition the dislodged otoconia within the horizontal canal, alleviating the symptoms of…

The internal auditory canal (IAC) is a narrow bony passage in the temporal bone that transmits the vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) from the inner ear to the brainstem. The IAC is approximately 10-12 mm in length and is divided into three segments: the meatal segment, the vestibular segment, and the cochlear segment. The meatal segment…