EarWell Infant Ear Molding Device: Experience and Parent Survey

Abstract

Background: EarWell infant ear molding device is a noninvasive, nonsurgical option to treat ear deformities in early infancy. There are no studies involving the parents' perspective to the use of the EarWell.

Aim: To investigate our experience with EarWell infant ear molding device and to assess the parents' satisfaction.

Study design: A retrospective case series study of infants with congenital ear deformities who were treated with EarWell device from October 2021 to November 2022. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Clinical photographs were obtained before, during, and after treatment. Parents' satisfaction level was assessed through telephone encounters and surveys, and issues associated with device application were identified. Clinical improvement of ear deformity was graded into poor, fair, good, and excellent.

Results: A total of 9 patients with congenital ear deformities were identified and included in this study (7 bilateral deformities and 2 unilateral deformities). The mean adjusted age of the initial treatment is 17 weeks (4-23 weeks), and the mean treatment duration is 5.7 weeks. The authors received full 8 responses from the parents' survey, and all parents were satisfied with post-treatment results (4 satisfied, 1 fully satisfied, and 2 very satisfied). Issues associated with device application were 3 superficial skin ulcers and 4 skin irritation. Clinical Improvement grades were: 5 excellent improvement, 2 good improvement, and 2 fair improvement.

Conclusions: On the basis of our experience, the EarWell device has shown a high success rate and a low complication rate. It is well accepted by parents, but it needs close follow-up to detect minor device-related issues. The device is safe for multiple skin types.