Nonoperative treatment of congenital deformities of the ear

Abstract

Selected congenital ear deformities particularly those of a deformational type (Stahl's ear, some cup and lop ears and ear prominence) as well as cryptotia may be corrected with early nonoperative splinting, avoiding later need for surgical correction. Nonoperative management of these deformities is possible because of the early malleability of cartilage during the neonatal period when the cartilage elasticity is affected by high levels of circulating maternal estrogens. Following 72 hours these levels drop and the cartilage becomes more firm. The splinting techniques, timing, and results of this treatment are reviewed.