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The tympanic membrane in cross section: a finite element analysis

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

T. H. J. Lesser  and
K. R. Williams
T. H. J. Lesser*
Affiliation:
Address for correspondence: Tristram Lesser, Departments of Otolaryngology and Dental Prosthetics, University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff, South Glamorgan.
K. R. Williams
Affiliation:
Address for correspondence: Tristram Lesser, Departments of Otolaryngology and Dental Prosthetics, University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff, South Glamorgan.
*
229 Lake Road West, Roath, Cardiff, South Glamorgan, Wales.
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Abstract

This paper applies the technique of finite element analysis to the tympanic membrane. A Two-dimensional cross-sectional model of the tympanic membrane and malleus is described. A variety of experiments have been performed on this model, and displacements under a uniform load are analysed. The shape of the displaced membrane and the movement of the umbo were found tobe sensitive to a number of factors. These include the elastic modulus of the membrane, the presence and position of the axis or rotation of the malleus, and the size of the pars flaccida. Some implications of these results are discussed.

Information

Type
Main Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 102 , Issue 3 , March 1988 , pp. 209 - 214
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1988

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