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Systematic Review on Microtia: Current Knowledge and Future Directions
Filippo Hellies1, Silvia Fracaro1, Gino Marioni2
1Bioacoustics Research Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience-DNS, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy.
Background:
Microtia is a congenital outer ear deformity that causes the auricle to be absent or underdeveloped. It is frequently associated with external auditory canal atresia and causes hearing and psychosocial problems.
Objectives:
We thoroughly investigate the aspects of microtia and explore both current and innovative therapies.
Methods:
A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, focusing on microtia and reconstruction methodologies. This review utilized three databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.
Results:
The etiology involves both genetic and environmental factors and can occur as part of a syndrome or as an isolated condition. Clinically, it has esthetic and functional implications, potentially leading to conductive hearing loss. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for treatment, which includes surgical reconstruction using autologous cartilage or synthetic prostheses. Advances in bioengineering and 3D printing offer new, less invasive solutions.
Conclusions:
This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on microtia, focusing on tissue engineering for auricular reconstruction, identifying research gaps, evaluating techniques, and providing a resource for clinicians to improve decision-making and foster further research.
