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[Audiological management of children with malformations of the ear]
1CHU Pellegrin, Clinique Universitaire O.R.L., Bordeaux, France.
Insights
All ear malformations require audiological assessment. Early testing and intervention, including hearing aids for bilateral or severe unilateral cases, are crucial for children with ear deformities.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Audiology
Context:
- Congenital ear malformations necessitate comprehensive audiological evaluation.
- Early detection of hearing deficits is critical for developmental outcomes.
Purpose:
- To outline audiological assessment protocols for infants and children with ear malformations.
- To guide management strategies based on the type and severity of malformation and hearing loss.
Summary:
- Audiological assessment is mandatory for all ear malformations.
- Evoked auditory potentials are used before 6 months, transitioning to subjective tests after 6-7 months.
- Management includes regular follow-up for unilateral cases and hearing aid provision for bilateral or severe unilateral hearing loss.
Impact:
- Establishes a clear diagnostic and management pathway for pediatric ear malformations.
- Emphasizes timely intervention to mitigate the impact of hearing loss on child development.
- Highlights the importance of audiological assessment in identifying the need for hearing aids and auditory rehabilitation.
Abstract:
All cases of malformation of the ear must undergo audiological assessment. Before the age of 6 months, evoked auditory potentials during natural sleep will give information on the threshold for the high frequencies in both ears, and will confirm that the inner ear is functioning. After the age of 6 to 7 months, subjective tests are used to demonstrate the bone conduction thresholds and sometimes (depending on the degree of cooperation of the child) 1 or 2 air conduction curves. When the malformation is unilateral, and the hearing is normal on the opposite side, regular follow-up is required. When the malformation is bilateral, or unilateral in conjunction with a sensorineural hearing loss in the opposite ear, the child must be treated as a deaf child, and provided with a hearing aid.