Microtia
Microtia is an incompletely formed ear. It ranges in severity from a bump of tissue to a partially formed ear. There are two forms of microtia: unilateral (affects one ear) and bilateral (affects both ears). Unilateral microtia occurs in 1 out of 8,000 births and bilateral microtia occurs in 1 out of 25,000 births.
In addition to altered physical appearance of the ear, children may experience:
- Approximately 40 percent reduction of hearing in the affected ear
- Problems locating the direction of sounds
- Ear infections
Causes
Further research is necessary to determine the exact cause of Microtia. However, there has been nothing to suggest that it is caused by the mother's actions during pregnancy.
Treatment
Children may require reconstructive surgery to rebuild the outer ear, or they may wear a prosthetic ear. Reconstructive surgery is a three- to four-step process, usually done two to three months apart. Surgical procedures usually begin around 6 years of age when the ear is 90 percent of its adult size, making it easier to determine the size of the ear that must be created.
Genetic Considerations
The possibility of passing microtia on to another child is believed to be less than 6 percent.
Information and Resources
For more information about microtia, call Gillette’s Center for Craniofacial Services at 651-602-3277 or 800-719-4040 (toll-free).
To refer a patient, call 651-229-3944 or 800-719-4040 (toll-free).
