Anthropometric growth study of normal human auricle

Area of Science:

• Anthropometry
• Human Growth and Development
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Understanding the anthropometric growth of the auricle (external ear) is crucial for diagnosing and treating auricular deformities.
• Previous studies have reported varying ear growth patterns across different populations, necessitating further research.
• Establishing normative growth data for the auricle aids in identifying deviations and planning interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the anthropometric growth of the auricle from birth to 18 years.
• To elucidate the growth dynamics and maturation patterns of the external ear.
• To provide dimensional data that can inform the timing of surgical treatments for auricular deformities.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 1552 children was evaluated across 50 groups.
• Six direct surface measurements of the right auricle were recorded, including length, various widths, and heights.
• The incidence of prominent ear deformity and lobule attachment was also assessed.

Main Results:

• Vertical auricular growth concluded by age 11 in girls and 12 in boys.
• Auricular width and height measurements reached near-complete size by age 6, with specific dimensions maturing earlier (e.g., tragus to antihelix width by 6-12 months).
• Conchal depth maturation occurred by age 5; prominent ear deformity was noted in 9.8% and attached lobule in 26.5% of subjects.

Conclusions:

• The study reveals specific ear growth patterns and maturation sizes that may differ from existing literature, highlighting population-specific variations.
• The collected dimensional data and growth patterns offer valuable insights for determining optimal timing for surgical correction of auricular deformities.
• Further comparative studies across diverse ethnic and social groups are recommended to establish universal understanding of ear size and growth.