microtia reconstruction
Pronunciation: MY-kro-tee-ah
Surgical creation of an external ear for patients born with underdeveloped ear structures.
Full Definition
Microtia reconstruction is a complex surgical procedure to create an external ear for patients born with microtia, a congenital condition resulting in an underdeveloped or absent external ear. The reconstruction typically involves multiple staged procedures, most commonly using autologous rib cartilage to construct an ear framework, followed by tissue expansion and ear elevation. Alternative approaches include prosthetic ears or alloplastic implant systems. The timing of surgery is usually planned when the child reaches 6-10 years of age, allowing for sufficient rib cartilage development while addressing psychosocial concerns before school age.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from otoplasty, which corrects protruding ears rather than reconstructing missing ear structures.
In Context
- "Stage I microtia reconstruction involved harvesting costal cartilage for framework construction." — surgical report
- "The patient's microtia reconstruction plan includes three staged procedures over 12 months." — treatment planning note