09-10, 11:30–12:00 (Europe/Istanbul), Facial Plastic 2
Ear malformations are among the most significant topics in facial plastic surgery (FPS), as they involve both aesthetic reshaping and functional restoration. These malformations, especially congenital cases such as microtia, external auditory canal atresia, and stenosis, demand careful evaluation and individualized management strategies. Importantly, the diagnosis and treatment of ear anomalies require close multidisciplinary collaboration—spanning plastic surgery, otology, audiology, genetics, and biomedical engineering.
In this keynote lecture, we will present an overview of China’s extensive clinical and scientific work in the comprehensive management of congenital ear malformations. Drawing from our center’s experience with thousands of patients, this talk will summarize surgical strategies for auricular correction and functional ear reconstruction, particularly in cases involving external auditory canal stenosis and atresia. We will highlight the challenges and technical refinements involved in these procedures and share outcome data and long-term follow-up.
A key focus will be on the application of bone conduction hearing technologies in patients with congenital outer and middle ear malformations, including selection criteria, surgical techniques, and auditory outcomes. Additionally, we will present recent progress in the genetic study of ear malformations in Chinese populations, including the identification of susceptibility genes and genotype-phenotype correlations that may guide personalized management.
Emerging technologies such as bioengineered materials and artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted tools are also opening new possibilities in ear reconstruction. We will discuss their potential value in optimizing surgical planning, prosthesis design, and patient-specific outcomes.
One of the core messages of this keynote will be the importance of establishing a structured and systematic classification for congenital ear anomalies to assist clinical decision-making. Such classification systems are essential in aligning patient expectations with feasible outcomes, especially in complex cases such as congenital auditory canal atresia, where discrepancies between functional demands and achievable surgical results are common.
Outcome Objectives:
· To provide an in-depth overview of clinical experience and research progress in the multidisciplinary treatment of congenital ear malformations.
· To highlight challenges in the practice of auricular reconstruction and functional ear surgery for external auditory canal stenosis and atresia.
· To discuss the indications, techniques, and outcomes of bone conduction hearing devices in complex cases.
· To introduce recent genetic findings and their clinical implications in ear anomaly diagnosis and counseling.
· To explore the application of new technologies such as biomaterials and AI in the diagnosis and treatment workflow.
· To advocate for the development and adoption of standardized classification systems for congenital ear malformations to improve clinical decision-making and patient communication.
This keynote aims to foster international exchange, promote evidence-based standards, and advance the field of congenital ear malformation management.
This proposal aims to promote international collaboration and academic exchange in the field of congenital ear malformations. By sharing China’s extensive clinical experience and research progress, the keynote will foster dialogue on surgical innovations, hearing rehabilitation strategies, and genetic insights. It also seeks to highlight the value of new technologies such as biomaterials and AI in improving patient outcomes. Ultimately, the presentation will encourage the development of standardized classification systems and multidisciplinary approaches, advancing global best practices and optimizing care for patients with complex ear anomalies.
Prof. Tian-Yu Zhang, chief of the Department of Facial Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Vice-president of the ENT Institute. Dr. Zhang has been engaged in the clinical treatment and fundamental research of congenital malformations of the middle and outer ear, and biomechanics and bioengineering related with the ears. He focuses on functional reconstruction and genetic research of these malformations. He has established a comprehensive sample database of ear deformities in China, proposed a new classification, subtype and degree classification system of ear deformities. He has established a functional ear reconstruction technology system and innovative surgical techniques, and has carried out more than 4000 cases of functional ear reconstruction surgery. He led the formulation of treatment domestic and international consensus for these diseases. He has received more than 10 national and provincial-level research fundings, and published over 300 related papers. He established the first cross-discipline specialty department in China, dedicated to the treatment of ear, nose and facial deformities, and explored and implemented the concept of specialization in plastic surgery.