Microtia Team Members

The microtia team consists of medical and surgical specialistswho evaluate and manage all aspects of the child's condition. Theplastic surgeon directs the team and will perform all necessaryexternal ear reconstruction. The audiologist evaluates the child'shearing. The nurse specialist is the liaison between patient/familyand other members of the team. He/She pro, vides information andsupport to new families, as well as pre- and post-operative teaching.The otolaryngologist evaluates and manages any abnormalities ofthe middle or inner ear, and performs the canalplasty surgery (theprocedure which will create an ear canal if it is indicated). Thepatient services representative assists families with issues suchas insurance, fees, coordination of appointments, travel arrangementsand financial support. In some patients an artificial ear is recommendedand is made by a prosthodontist. The psychologist performs psychometrictesting and is available for counseling and referral to communitymental health resources. The speech pathologist evaluates the qualityof speech and language development and recommends speech therapyas needed.