Microtia Treatment Options
Rib-Graft Reconstruction:
A rib is removed and used to provide the framework for the reconstructed ear. Usually performed after age 6 to ensure that the ear has stopped growing and the rib cage is large enough to provide the donor material necessary. Rib graft auricular reconstruction requires three to four surgical procedures for unilateral microtia and five or more for bilateral microtia.
For more information on the rib graft approach to microtia reconstruction, and the experience of world-renowned microtia reconstruction specialist Dr. Burt Brent, please visit www.earsurgery.com. CEI physicians and Dr.
Brent have worked together for over 35 years coordinating the care required to create ear canals and outer ears for children and adults with congenital aural atresia and/or microtia.
Medpor polyethelene plastic implant:
This is a two stage surgery which can start around age 3. Note that for patients with both Microtia and Atresia, that when using Medpor for the outer ear reconstruction the atresia repair must be done FIRST (as mentioned above with the rib graft reconstruction, the atresia repair is done AFTER).
Soft tissue reconstruction:
This option is most often used when the patient has an atypical microtia – for example, the top or the bottom of the ear is missing, but the rest of the ear is present and a normal size, or the microtic ear is cup shaped and can be unfolded.
Ear Prosthesis:
A craniofacial prosthesis or auricular (ear) prosthesis is custom made by an anaplastologist to mirror the other ear. Prosthetic ears can appear very realistic yet they do require daily care. They are typically made of silicone which is colored to match your individual skin and can be attached using adhesive or with titanium screws inserted into the skull to which the prosthetic is attached with a magnetic or bar/clip type system. These screws are the same as the BAHA (bone anchored hearing Appliance) screws.
Watch Video on teenage patient discusses surgery experience
