Intermediate
Technical
IVT
microtia
Pronunciation: my-KROH-shuh
Congenital underdevelopment of the external ear requiring reconstructive surgery for both function and appearance.
Full Definition
A congenital condition characterized by underdevelopment or absence of the external ear (auricle). The condition ranges from mild deformity to complete absence of the ear structure and may be associated with hearing loss due to aural atresia. Surgical reconstruction typically involves multiple stages using autologous rib cartilage grafts or synthetic materials to create an ear framework, followed by soft tissue coverage and positioning.
In Context
- "The child with grade III microtia was scheduled for rib cartilage harvest." — Pediatric surgery note
- "Microtia reconstruction requires careful timing to allow adequate chest wall development." — Parent counseling documentation
Also known as
congenital ear deformity
Contrasted with
macrotia
Don't confuse with
anotia
aural atresia