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. 2023 Sep-Oct;13(5):622-629.
doi: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2023.08.001. Epub 2023 Aug 4.

3D assessment of ear morphology

Meleti Venkata Sowmya  1 , Divya Mehrotra  1 , Shadab Mohammad  1 , R K Singh  1 , Arunesh Kumar Tiwari  1 , Ravi Katrolia  1 , Shivani Sharma Yogesh  1
Affiliations

3D assessment of ear morphology

Meleti Venkata Sowmya et al. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res. 2023 Sep-Oct.

Abstract

Introduction: Auricular reconstruction is a technically challenging and aesthetically demanding procedure as the ear has a complex anatomy. Anthropometry aids in achieving aesthetic ear reconstruction. We considered that implication of stereophotogrammetric technology will lead to a better understanding of human ear morphology.

Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in our institutional OPD in a tertiary health care centre in the Northern part of India.400 people were chosen based on selection criteria. facial scans were done for 3D pictures using Canfield VECTRA® H2 3D imaging device. Study variables were assessed after marking landmarks on the 3D-generated auricular image of an individual.

Discussion: This study consisted of 55.5% males and 44.5% females belonging to the age group of 5-25 years (30.3%), 26-40 years (38.8%) and>40 yr (31.0%). Out of 400 cases, the majority had; oval shaped auricle, normally rolled helix, square earlobe; knob shaped tragus. The attached type of earlobe attachment was more in the right auricle (37%) and the partial attachment ear lobe was more in the left side auricle (35.5%). Darwin's tubercle showed more proportion in the case of males. The mean length and width of the auricle & attachment length are higher in males compared to females. Ear Angulation is highest among females.

Conclusion: Assessment of ear morphology using technologically sound methods like stereophotogrammetry paves the way for a more quick, reliable and easy-to-use method for understanding ear morphology. Precise assessment of ear morphology using stereophotogrammetry helps in providing more cosmetic and acceptable ear restoration.

Keywords: Anthropometry; Ear morphology; Stereophotogrammetry.

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Conflict of interest statement

None.

Figures

Image 1
Graphical abstract
Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Landmarks marked over the Ear.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Images showing the shape of ear • 2A: Round shape • 2B: Oval shape • 2C: Triangular shape • 2D: Rectangular shape.
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Images showing the Types of Ear helix • 3A: Normally rolled helix • 3B: Wide helix overing scapha • 3C: Flat helix • 3D: Concave marginal helix.
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Images showing the Types of Ear lobe • 4A: Tongue Shape • 4B: Triangular Shape • 4C: Arched Shape • 4D: Square Shape.
Fig. 5
Fig. 5
Images showing attachment types of Ear lobe • 5A: Free Earlobe • 5B: Partially attached Earlobe • 5C: Attached Earlobe.
Fig. 6
Fig. 6
Images showing shapes of Tragus • 6A: Knob shape • 6B: Round shape • 6C: Long.
Fig. 7
Fig. 7
Images showing the study variables marked • 7A: Length of the ear • 7B: Width of the ear • 7C: Attachment length of the ear • 7D: Angulation of the ear.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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