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

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Text written by Antoine Micheau, MD - Copyright IMAIOS and reviewed by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2024 IMAIOS.

  • 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.