Congenital Anomalies of the Ear:

Congenital anomalies of the ear are deformities occurred by birth. Common congenital anomalies of the ear are:

Microtia:

• Microtia is a congenital deformity characterized by an underdeveloped outer ear (pinna).
• Microtia is usually unilateral but may occur on both ears.

Anotia:

• In some cases, the pinna may be completely absent; this is referred to as Anotia.
• Anotia is the most severe form of Microtia.

Atresia:

• Atresia, the closing-off of the ear pinna passage, is often associated with Microtia because the middle ear is also underdeveloped.

Treatment of Congenital Anomalies of Ear:

Factors like: will determine the treatment of Microtia and Anotia

• The severity of the Microtia, i.e., the degree to which pinna is underdeveloped.
• The treatment also depends on whether the Microtia is unilateral or bilateral.

Microtia repair surgery is generally done when the child is about five to seven years of age.

Microtia has several procedural options, but a rib graft is the most common approach to reconstruction.

RIB Graft Surgery:

• Rib graft surgery is done in several steps.
• First, the cartilage is removed from the child's rib.
• Then, the cartilage is placed beneath the skin and formed into the shape of a "normal" ear.
• A skin graft will cover the cartilage. Subsequent stages position the earlobe and elevate the ear from the scalp.

Postoperative care Following Surgery

• With your doctor's approval, you can return to work and other routines about one week after surgery.
• Supervision will still be necessary for younger patients during this time, and parents should discourage rough and strenuous activities that could displace the ear.
• Once the initial recovery is complete, patients can recommence all activities.