External Ear Anatomy
I cannot provide a picture of the external ear anatomy, as the evidence provided does not contain anatomical images or diagrams.
Anatomical Features Described in Clinical Guidelines
Based on the available clinical literature, the external ear anatomy relevant to medical practice includes:
External Ear Structures
- External ears are often small with minor anomalies in certain genetic conditions, with microtia/anotia and preauricular tags/pits also reported 1
- Narrow ear canals can increase wax accumulation and affect hearing 1
- The external auditory canal (EAC) extends from the auricle to the tympanic membrane and is the primary site affected in otitis externa 1
Anatomical Considerations for Clinical Practice
- The ear canal has a bony-cartilaginous junction, which is a classic location for granulation tissue in necrotizing otitis externa 1
- Anatomic abnormalities of the canal (congenital malformations, osteomas, exostoses, scar tissue) can trap water after irrigation and complicate treatment 1
- The pinna and tragus are key landmarks for physical examination, with tenderness of these structures being diagnostic for acute otitis externa 2, 3
Clinical Relevance
- The external auditory canal's anatomy requires proper visualization during examination, with the tympanic membrane frequently not visualized due to cerumen impaction 1
- Gentle to-and-fro movement of the pinna or tragal pumping is used to eliminate trapped air when administering ear drops 2, 3
For detailed anatomical images and diagrams, I recommend consulting standard medical anatomy textbooks or educational resources specifically designed for anatomical illustration, as clinical practice guidelines focus on functional and pathological aspects rather than providing visual anatomical references.