Otologic and audiology aspects of microtia repair

Congenital abnormalities of the outer ear pose a reconstructive challenge for plastic surgeons and otologists. Many patients with microtia of the auricle have concurrent atresia of the external auditory canal. The hearing loss associated with canal atresia can have long-lasting effects if not treated promptly and appropriately. The diagnosis and workup for canal atresia requires an otologic evaluation. Audiologic and radiologic evaluations direct treatment, which varies depending on unilateral or bilateral presence of atresia. Rehabilitation of hearing loss can be performed via hearing aids, bone-anchored conductive devices or canalplasty. Due to the complexity of treatments, communication between the reconstructive plastic surgeon and the otologist is necessary to detect hearing loss and determine the best method of restoring hearing in conjunction with microtia repair.