Diseases of the external ear

Question 1

Innervation of the EAC

Answer 1

Pinna laterally, inferiorly and posteriorly → auricular nerve (cervical plexus)

Inferior bony canal, superior cartilaginous canal → vagus nerve (Arnorld’s nerve)

Superior bony canal → facial nerve

Anterior portion of the pinna → trigeminal nerve (V3)

Question 2

Vascular supply

Answer 2

Posterior auricular artery and superficial temporal artery (both from the external carotid artery):​ The auricle and lateral EAC.

Deep auricular branch of the maxillary artery: Medial EAC and the external surface of the tympanic membrane.

Posterior auricular and superficial temporal veins: external ear.