Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 6, 2025
Endaural Endoscopic Atticoantrotomy Retrograde Mastoidectomy using a Constant Suction Bone-drilling Technique
Published on: May 23, 2021
A longitudinal study of changes of congenital auricular deformity regarding self-correction
Minsik Kim1, Hyun-Min Lee1, Sung-Won Choi2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Biomedical Research Institute, Yangsan Pusan National University Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea.
Insights
Congenital auricular deformities affect many newborns, with male sex being a risk factor. While about 50% self-correct within a year, specific types like prominent or cup ears may require intervention.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Plastic Surgery
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Congenital auricular deformities are common birth defects.
- Understanding their prevalence and natural correction is crucial for management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors associated with congenital auricular deformities.
- To evaluate the long-term self-correction rate of these deformities.
- To assess the impact of deformity type on prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Digital imaging classified auricle shapes in 90 newborns at birth and 1 year.
- Birth-related factors were analyzed.
- Longitudinal follow-up assessed changes in deformity type and self-correction.
Main Results:
- 139 of 180 ears had deformities; helix rim (47) and cup ear (33) were most common.
- Male sex showed a significant association with deformity.
- Approximately 50% self-correction rate observed over 12 months.
- Prominent and cup ears showed significant decreases, suggesting potential for intervention.
Conclusions:
- Congenital auricular deformities are prevalent, with male infants at higher risk.
- Self-correction rates vary by deformity type, with some types showing limited natural improvement.
- Early intervention, like auricle molding, may be beneficial for persistent deformities such as prominent and cup ears.
Abstract:
This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with congenital auricular deformities and evaluate the long-term frequency of their self-correction. Ninety newborns were enrolled in the study, and data were collected within 2 weeks after birth and at 1 year. The shape of the auricle was classified into seven categories using a digital image. At 2 weeks after birth, several birth-related factors were evaluated in the auricular deformity and normal groups. At 1 year after birth, the images of auricles were compared with the images at birth, and the changes in the auricle shape were investigated. Congenital auricular deformities were observed in 139 out of 180 ears, and the major type noted was helix rim deformity (47 ears), followed by normal ears (41 ears), and cup ears (33 ears). Male sex was found to have a statistically significant association with the occurrence of auricular deformity. In the longitudinal study, among 43 neonates (86 ears) followed-up 12 months later, the self-correction rate was approximately 50%. The normal auricle and prominent ear increased, helix rim deformity and cup ear decreased significantly. The prognosis of deformity varied depending on the type of deformity. Considering the low self-correction rate in the prominent and cup ears, newborns with these deformities might be recommended to undergo management such as auricle molding technique, as required.
More Related Videos
06:13Endoscopic Septoplasty with Limited Two-line Resection: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Septal Deviation
Published on: June 20, 2018
06:59Intrathecal Application of a Fluorescent Dye for the Identification of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks in Cochlear Malformation
Published on: February 29, 2020