Evaluation and Nonsurgical Treatment of Neonatal Ear Anomalies: A Case Report.
Adv Neonatal Care 2022;
22:317-324. [PMID:
35816427 DOI:
10.1097/anc.0000000000000999]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Inspection and evaluation of the neonate's ears are important parts of the neonatal examination. Neonates display a wide variety of ear size and configuration. In many cases, ear molding techniques obviate the need for future surgical correction. This article provides a review of the fetal ear development and describes common physical examination findings of the newborn's external ear. A case report reviews a successful nonsurgical treatment of a minor ear deformity.
CLINICAL FINDINGS
Newborn infant with near absent to very thin bilateral helical rims and otherwise normal bilateral ear shape and structures.
PRIMARY DIAGNOSIS
Bilateral Stahl's ear deformity.
INTERVENTIONS
The EarBuddies product was applied to bilateral ears in an outpatient pediatric plastic surgery clinic. This product remained in place for 8 weeks.
OUTCOMES
The family was pleased with the overall progress and shape of their child's ears. At 18 months of age, the family has no desire to pursue surgical correction of their child's ears.
PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS
Assessment of the newborn's external ear is part of a routine admission examination. Careful attention to abnormal or unusual findings allows for prompt evaluation and nonsurgical intervention.
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