Microtia is a deformity of the external ear that can affect one or both ears, with grade III being the most common. Corrective surgery can be used to reconstruct the outer ear and create an external ear canal and eardrum. Children who don’t receive treatment may have difficulty in school and self-esteem issues.
Microtia is a condition in which there is some type of deformity with the external ear. Sometimes referred to as small ear, this condition can occur in one ear or affect both ears. However, when only one ear is involved, this ear deformity appears to occur more frequently with the right ear.
There are different grades or classes of microtia. With a grade I condition, the ear is slightly smaller than normal and has a structure that resembles a normal ear, as well as a tiny but functional ear canal. Grade II microtia looks different, with a visible partial ear, but involving a closed external ear canal that inhibits hearing function.
When grade III microtia is present, there is no discernible external ear. Instead, there is a small structure that roughly resembles a peanut. There is no external ear canal and no eardrum present. Grade III appears to be the most common of all reported cases of microtia. With grade IV, the entire ear, both inner and outer, is missing.
Of the four classes or grades, grade III microtia is the most commonly reported. Fortunately, corrective surgery can often be used to shape a proper outer ear. Before any surgery, tests are conducted to make sure that the inner ear is present and functioning. If so, the tissue can be harvested and combined with other materials to shape a believable external ear and create an external ear canal and eardrum.
Surgery can also be used to correct situations involving grade I and II microtia. This involves reconstructing the outer ear, as well as treating the presence of auricular astesia, a condition in which there is no external opening to the ear canal. When asthesia cannot be corrected surgically, a small hearing aid can be adhered to the bone. Reconstruction can be done by harvesting rib cartilage, using plastic implants, installing an ear prosthesis, or a combination of the three.
While some people feel there’s no need to intervene when only one ear is affected by microtia, there is some evidence that children who don’t get treatment are likely to have a much harder time in school. Additionally, not having two normal ears can also create a great deal of self-esteem issues for children, with these issues continuing into adulthood. Even if the decision is not to attempt physical reconstruction of the affected ear, providing your child with professional advice can make a significant difference in how they perceive the impact of the deformity.
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