What is external acoustic meatus?

External acoustic meatus is the external opening of the ear canal which leads to the middle ear. It is about 2.5 cm long and is separated from the middle ear by the tympanic membrane. The external acoustic meatus is lined with skin and contains ceruminous glands which secrete earwax.

Function:

- Collects sound waves and channels them to the middle ear.

- Protects the middle ear from foreign objects and debris.

- Secretes earwax which helps to keep the ear canal clean and free of infection.