Because of the association with these syndromes, patients with microtia should be seen by a team of specialists and have a genetics evaluation so that the parents can be informed of any increased risk of these syndromes in future children. A patient with classic aural atresia. An Earlobe is present but is malpositioned. No ear canal is present. The first priority during infancy is to ensure that there is sufficient hearing for language development.
BAER testing is performed before the child is old enough to cooperate with behavioral testing.
Reliable behavioral testing is the procedure of choice when the child is mature enough to cooperate. This is the case in the majority of patients. If the deformity involves both ears, a hearing aid will be recommended immediately. Surgery to restore hearing may not be recommended for several years. Regular monitoring of hearing and language is critical and should be performed at least as often as outlined in the attached protocol.