CLINICAL AND DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF CASES REQUIRING EAR LOBE REPAIR IN NORTH GUJARAT

Abstract

Introduction: Wearing various types of earrings is not only an age old custom but a fashion symbol also. This demographic and clinical profile study was done on ear lobe cleft cases attending ENT OPD of a tertiary care center of North Gujarat.

Methodology: The size, number of ears involved, factors leading to ear lobe cleft such as weight of earring, duration of wearing heavy rings, pull leading to tear were noted in all cases. Surgical repair was done by scar excision and suturing. The procedure was completed in 15-20 minutes and minimal post surgical complications in the form of depressed linear scar and lower border notching are seen in 2 cases.

Results: Prevalence of ear lobe cleft was 2.4% of all OPD cases. 192 cases (328 ears) included 187 (97.3%) females and 5 males. Both ears were involved in 136 (70.8%) cases while 56 cases had unilateral involvement. A partial cleft of 6 to 10 mm size (range from 3-25 mm) was most common reason in females to visit for repair and total cleft was observed in 122 (37.1%) ears. 42% females (age 15-45 years) had bilateral clefts whereas unilateral involvement was common at young age (1-15 years). Factors leading to cleft formation were earrings weight and prolonged use (44.4% tears were due to weight 15 grams or more).

Conclusion: Ear lobe cleft can be repaired by simple surgical approximation. Prevention of recurrence can be done by simple advice of avoiding the scar site for re-piercing and use of light weight earrings.