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Published on: June 8, 2017
Implementation of auricular malformation screenings in the newborn population
Yi-Chun Carol Liu1, Sameer Kini2, Geran Barton3
1Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, One Baylor Plaza Suite NA-102, Houston, TX, 77030, USA; Texas Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, 6701 Fannin St, Suite 640, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
Background And Objective:
Research has shown that it is important to initiate ear molding early for children with auricular malformations in order to achieve the best results. Currently our institute relies on the traditional primary care physician (PCP) referral system, which does not recognize the time sensitivity of the visit in patients with auricular malformations. The purpose of the current research is to implement a new screening protocol for identifying auricular malformations in the newborn population and thus expedite the clinic visit and necessary intervention.
Methods:
The hearing screen technicians (HSTs) were trained to identify some of the most common auricular malformations. A picture guide of 11 types of auricular malformations were given to the HSTs to use as a reference. At the time of the newborn hearing screen, the HSTs examined the pinnas of each baby. When an auricular malformation was identified, the auricular malformation team was immediately alerted and a bedside consultation with ENT occurred.
Results:
Comparison was made of the referral rate between pre- and post-implementation of the protocol which showed an increased rate of identification (five referrals in the 12-month period pre-implementation versus eighteen referrals in the 15-month period post-implementation).
Conclusion:
We successfully implemented an auricular malformation screening protocol that was linked to newborn hearing screenings. The frequency of identification has increased with the implementation of the new screening protocol and has resulted in earlier initial ENT consultations for ear molding with the goal of improving patient satisfaction and results.
