Efficacy Analysis of Ear Molding Correction for Congenital Auricular Deformities at Different Ages.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the clinical outcomes of ear molding correction in children with congenital auricular deformities at different ages, explore the optimal timing and latest time window for ear molding correction.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed data from children with congenital auricular deformities who underwent ear molding correction in our department from January 2021 to June 2024. Children were divided into four groups based on their ages at initial treatment: Group A (≤21 days) , Group B (22-42 days) , Group C (43-90 days) , and Group D (≥91 days) . The success rate, treatment duration, and incidence of complications were compared among the four groups.

RESULTS

The success rates in Groups A, B, and C were comparable and significantly higher than in Group D (p < 0.05). Notably, the success rate for correcting cryptotia was 100% across all groups. Treatment duration was shortest in Group A (p < 0.05), while there were no statistically significant differences in complication rates among the four groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The optimal timing for ear molding correction in children with congenital auricular deformities is within 21 days after birth, ensuring the highest efficiency and shortest treatment duration. If this optimal period is missed, correction within 90 days remains a viable option. Children with cryptotia older than 90 days still respond well to corrective treatment, but the latest age for treatment has not yet been determined.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.