Anotia Infant Ear
or Anotie
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The Anotia Infant Ear (also known as Anotie in German) is characterized by the absence of the entire outer part of the ear. This ear deformity is the most severe grade IV microtia ear deformity and is relatively rare (one to two infants in 10,000 births). It most commonly occurs in one ear, but it can also occur in both ears. Although most Anotie patients have middle and inner ear structures, they often suffer from conductive hearing loss. Sound waves have difficulty penetrating the ear and being heard. This is usually a condition that can be improved over the course of Anotie treatment.
Can an annotation be corrected?
The cause of the Anotie deformity is not entirely clear, it occurs in about 40% of cases in connection with congenital diseases such as Goldenhar and Treacher Collings syndrome and AMS. External disorders such as maternal diabetes, drug use or malnutrition (insufficient folic acid or carbohydrates) can also contribute to the disruption of normal ear growth.
Unfortunately, this severe deformity of the infant ear cannot be treated with the EarWell® system. Treatment is carried out by a multidisciplinary team of specialists: an otolaryngologist assesses the hearing ability and develops the treatment plan. A speech pathologist is often recommended to support speech development. A plastic surgeon performs the pinna reconstruction (between the ages of six and ten). This usually takes place in several steps or operations.