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Nonsurgical Correction of Cryptotia in Newborn: A Case Report

Objective: To report on the result of nonsurgical correction of deformational auricular anomaly (cryptotia) using moulded silicone as a splint.
 Methods: Congenital auricular anomalies can be categorized as either malformed or deformational. Cryptotia as a deformational anomaly is defined as an ear having normal chondrocutaneous components with an abnormal architecture; therefore, it can be manipulated digitally into normal shape. Auricular deformation commonly affect the helix and antehelix. Since neonatal auricle is extremely pliable, we used early splinting to correct deformational ear anomalies. These splints are made from silicone, moulded into a small bar and held in place with the Steri-Strips™. The type of the auricular anomaly was documented both clinically and photographically before and two months after the cessation of treatment. Assessment of the result was made by comparing the pre- and post-treatment photograph.
 Result: In this case report, we applied this method to two newborn with cryptotia and the correction was achieved completely in two months after application of the silicone bar. The parents felt that auricular splinting is worthwhile.
 Conclusion: Deformational congenital auricular anomaly can be corrected nonsurgically using splinting therapy. The treatment is effective if initiated in the first three months of life. Patients and parents persistence is essential to reach satisfactory outcome. Adherence to treatmenr is crucial to negate the need for surgical treatment of congenital auricular anomalies.