Development and Validation of a Finite Element Model of the Human Middle Ear Based on Medical Imaging

Abstract

Finite-element modeling (FEM) is a powerful tool for studying the mechanical behavior of the human ear. This study presents a three-dimensional FEM of the middle and inner ear, developed from high-resolution computed tomography (CT) data. The model includes the external auditory canal, tympanic membrane, and ossicular chain, with the inner ear represented as a viscous damping element. Frequency-domain simulations were performed to analyze tympanic membrane and stapes vibrations. Results show strong agreement with experimental data, demonstrating that the proposed FEM accurately reproduces middle ear dynamics across a wide frequency range. The methodology provides a reliable framework for investigating auditory mechanics and designing biomedical devices.