[Functional and aesthetic rehabilitation of microtia in children and adolescents].

BACKGROUND: Microtia leads to a severe functional and aesthetic handicap. Traditionally, the auricle is often reconstructed with cartilage transplants, which is, however, associated with some partially substantial disadvantages. The authors have instead used implants of porous polyethylene for successful ear reconstruction for years, thus, avoiding some of these disadvantages. A significant benefit for the patient is achieved by simultaneous hearing rehabilitation by the implantation of active middle ear prostheses.
METHODS: The authors present their surgical concept which allows functional and aesthetic rehabilitation of microtia in children and adolescents in a single operation. In the respective patient collective, audiometric measurements in quiet and noisy environments were conducted pre- and postoperatively, and health-related quality of life was determined using a validated questionnaire.
RESULTS: All patients experienced a substantial hearing gain both in quiet and noisy environments. The evaluation of health-related quality of life showed a significant benefit from the intervention.
CONCLUSION: Functional and aesthetic rehabilitation of microtia with active middle ear implants and ear reconstruction using porous polyethylene leads to good and reliable long-term results and can increase the health-related quality of life of affected children and adolescents. The main advantage of this concept is the possibility of a single procedure.