A neonate with bilateral microtia and aural atresia is evaluated for hearing rehabilitation. Which statement regarding management of congenital aural atresia is correct?

• A Bone-anchored hearing aids are contraindicated in children under 5 years
• B Surgical canaloplasty should be performed before age 2 for best results
• C Cochlear implantation is the first-line intervention for bilateral aural atresia
• D Early bone conduction hearing amplification is recommended to support speech and language development ✓

Explanation

In bilateral congenital aural atresia, early bone conduction hearing amplification (softband bone conduction devices or bone-anchored devices) is essential for normal speech and language development. Surgical canaloplasty is technically difficult and typically deferred. Bone-anchored devices with softbands can be used in infancy. Cochlear implantation is reserved for cases with cochlear nerve aplasia or when hearing aids are insufficient.

Reference: Cummings Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.