What is microtia
Microauricular malformation is a kind of congenital malformation of the ear, which is characterized by abnormal shape, different size or absence of the auricle. This deformity not only affects the appearance of patients, but also may affect hearing to some extent.
The cause of microtia is not completely clear at present, but it may be related to genetic, environmental and other factors. In the process of embryonic development, the formation of ear structure is regulated by a variety of genes. If these genes are mutated or abnormally expressed, it may lead to the occurrence of microtia. In addition, pregnant women may also increase the risk of fetal microtia when exposed to certain harmful substances and infected with viruses during pregnancy.
The clinical manifestations of microtia are varied and can be divided into mild, moderate and severe according to the severity of the malformation. Mild microtia is characterized by slightly abnormal shape of auricle, but the basic structure is complete; Moderate microtia is characterized by partial absence or hypoplasia of auricle; Severe microtia is characterized by complete absence of auricle or only residual tissue. In addition, microtia may also be accompanied by external auditory canal stenosis, atresia, middle ear malformation and other complications, further affecting hearing.
Diagnosis of microtia
The diagnosis of microtia mainly depends on clinical manifestations and imaging examination. The doctor can make a clear diagnosis by observing the shape, size, position and other characteristics of the patient's ear, combined with the results of audiology, ear CT and other imaging examinations. In addition, doctors also need to rule out other diseases that may lead to ear malformations, such as congenital atresia of the external auditory canal, middle ear malformations, etc.
Treatment of microtia
The treatment of microtia mainly includes surgical treatment and non-surgical treatment. Surgical treatment is the main method to treat microtia at present, which can restore the appearance and function of the ear by reconstructing the shape and structure of the auricle. The time of surgical treatment is usually selected after the patient is 6 years old, when the ear development is basically completed, and the surgical effect is good. The operation methods include autogenous costal cartilage transplantation, artificial material implantation, etc. The specific methods need to be selected according to the patient's condition and ear shape.
Non operative treatment mainly includes wearing artificial ear and ear orthotics. These methods can improve the appearance of patients to a certain extent, but can not restore the function of the ear. Non operative treatment is usually suitable for patients with mild microtia or who are not suitable for surgical treatment.
Prevention of microtia
Because the cause of microtia is not completely clear, there is no effective prevention method at present. However, during pregnancy, pregnant women should avoid contacting harmful substances and infecting viruses, and maintain good living and eating habits, which will help reduce the risk of fetal microtia.
Rehabilitation of microtia
Patients with microtia need rehabilitation treatment after surgery, including ear care, hearing training, etc. Ear care mainly includes keeping ear clean and avoiding collision, which is helpful to prevent infection and complications. Listening training can help patients improve their listening ability and adapt to daily life and learning.
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