Perspectives on ear reconstruction and hearing intervention in microtia-atresia: insights from parent-child dyads and adults

Management of microtia-atresia commonly requires preference-sensitive decisions regarding hearing rehabilitation and cosmetic ear reconstruction surgery (ERS). These choices are often parent-directed in childhood, yet comparative data describing concordance and discordance among parent, child, and adult stakeholder perspectives on treatment priorities, outcomes and satisfaction remain limited....

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Audiologists counseling patients with microtia-atresia should be aware that patient and family values strongly shape decisions about hearing rehabilitation and ear reconstruction; incorporating shared decision-making frameworks that reflect these perspectives is warranted, though this qualitative study does not prescribe specific clinical protocols.

Understanding patient and family priorities in microtia-atresia care can help audiologists and surgeons move toward truly patient-centred, shared decision-making rather than clinician-driven treatment pathways.

1. 01Qualitative design captured lived experiences of parent-child dyads and adults with microtia-atresia.
2. 02Study focused on 'preference-sensitive' decisions — choices where personal values legitimately drive the best option.
3. 03Both hearing rehabilitation and cosmetic ear reconstruction were examined as separate but interrelated decisions.
4. 04Findings highlight the importance of patient and family voice in treatment planning for this population.
5. 05Results may inform counseling frameworks and shared decision-making tools in audiology and ENT practice.

PMID

42832438

DOI

10.1159/aud/abnag006.

Journal

Audiology (Karger / Audiology and Neurotology)

Publication type

research_article

Evidence level

4

Population

Parent-child dyads and adults living with microtia-atresia

Intervention

Qualitative exploration of perspectives on hearing rehabilitation and cosmetic ear reconstruction