Membrana non vibrans, a Latin term used in medical terminology to refer to a structure of the ear that does not vibrate. The phonetic transcription of this term is mɛmˈbrana non vɪˈbranz, in which "membrana" is pronounced as "mɛmˈbrana" with stress on the first syllable, while "non vibrans" is pronounced as "nɒn vɪˈbranz" with stress on the second syllable of "vibrans." The correct spelling of this term is essential to ensure accurate communication among medical professionals in the field of otology.
Membrana non vibrans is a Latin term that translates to "non-vibrating membrane" in English. It refers to a specific anatomical structure found within the human ear, more specifically in the middle ear.
This membrane is commonly known as the "tympanic membrane" or the eardrum. It is a thin, cone-shaped layer of tissue that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. The primary function of the membrana non vibrans is to transmit sound waves from the external environment to the inner ear where they are eventually converted to electrical signals that the brain can interpret.
The term "non-vibrating" emphasizes the fact that this membrane does not actively participate in the process of sound amplification. Instead, it acts as a passive barrier that receives the sound waves and transmits them to the three small bones in the middle ear called the ossicles. These ossicles, comprised of the malleus, incus, and stapes, then amplify the sound and transmit it further to the inner ear.
The membrana non vibrans is a critical component of the auditory system, playing a vital role in the process of hearing. Any damage or perforation to this membrane can lead to hearing loss or impaired sound transmission. Consequently, it is essential to maintain the integrity of the membrana non vibrans for optimal hearing function.
M. flaccida, Shrapnell's membrane.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.