Finite-element modelling of the human middle ear

Most models of the middle ear are based on oversimplified geometries and iterative material-property fitting to experimental data which may yield physiologically incorrect estimates.The aim of our work was to build an accurate human middle-ear finite-element model that is based on accurate geometry and a priori material-property estimates.A human temporal-bone specimen was obtained for which the middle-ear response had been measured by means of laser Doppler vibrometry. High-resolution micro-computed tomography data for the specimen were used for accurately defining structure geometry. This model comprises the tympanic membrane, the ossicles, two joints, and four ligaments. We assigned estimated material-property values derived from the literature.We compared the response of our model with those of other human middle-ear models, and with experimental measurements including those from the same ear. Sensitivity of the model to several of its parameters was also investigated