Caroticotympanic canaliculi
Canaliculi caroticotympanici
Definition
The caroticotympanic canaliculi are small channels in the temporal bone that link the carotid canal to the tympanic, or middle ear, cavity. These canaliculi allow caroticotympanic nerves to pass through, connecting to the tympanic plexus in the middle ear. The caroticotympanic nerves originate from the carotid plexus, which surrounds the internal carotid artery, and carry postganglionic sympathetic fibers from there to the middle ear.
References
Standring, S. (2016). ‘Chapter 37: External and middle ear’ in Gray’s anatomy: the anatomical basis of clinical practice. (41st ed.) New York NY: Elsevier, pp. 638.
