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Updated: Jun 11, 2026
Discovering Middle Ear Anatomy by Transcanal Endoscopic Ear Surgery: A Dissection Manual
Published on: January 11, 2018
Lateral endoscopic approach to epitympanic diaphragm and Prussak's space: a dissection study
Daniele Marchioni1, Matteo Alicandri-Ciufelli, Alberto Grammatica
1Otolaryngology Department, University Hospital of Modena, Via Del Pozzo 41, 41100, Modena, Italy.
Introduction:
Until now, anatomic descriptions of the epitympanic diaphragm and Prussak's space have been performed using a microscope. The aim of this study is to thoroughly describe and review the epitympanic diaphragm and the anatomy of Prussak's space from an endoscopic point of view.
Study Design:
Cadaver dissection study.
Setting:
Tertiary referral university center.
Materials And Methods:
The anatomy of four temporal bones dissected using an endoscope was studied. The most important findings were noted and described.
Results:
Endoscopic cadaveric dissection of the middle ear allows a very good visualization of the epitympanic diaphragm, Prussak's space and middle ear anatomy in general.
Conclusion:
Endoscopic exploration and thorough knowledge of the complex fold anatomy may improve 'functional' interventions in middle ear inflammatory pathology during middle ear surgery, particularly in the case of selective dysventilation.
