Congenital ear deformities in infants require surgical correction. Researchers at the University of Tokyo have devised a non-surgical method using paper clips to manage these deformities in infants. A total of 80 ears of infants with cryptotia and constricted ears in Tanzer groups II A and II B were splinted, and an observation was made if the auriculocephalic sulcus, a structure important for wearing glasses or mask, was formed or not. Paper clips were used to make a custom splint that molded as per the ear shape and was padded with cotton to protect the skin.
A thermoplastic resin was also used to encourage the growth of the ear cartilage. The splint was worn all the time except during baths and is best used before seven months of age. 35% of ears showed excellent results, while 73% of ears showed satisfactory results, eliminating the need for surgical repair or correction for…
