Switching from a percutaneous to a transcutaneous bone anchored hearing system: the utility of the fascia temporalis superficialis pedicled flap in case of skin intolerance.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To present the option to use a Fascia Temporalis Superficialis pedicled flap for the implantation of a transcutaneous magnetic osseointegrated auditory implant in selected revision procedures. BACKGROUND: Osseointegrated auditory implants represent a reliable option for patients. Skin intolerance and aesthetic issue are two clear limitations of percutaneous system. Magnetic transcutaneous devices have been developed to overcome such drawbacks. The current new experience of such a device shows that they are well tolerated in primary cases. However, switching from a previous percutaneous system raises the question of skin tolerance. Hence, previous implanted abutments with skin penetration and skin reduction are more likely cause to skin intolerance and complication. METHODS: We described here the option to use a Fascia Temporalis Superficialis flap to cover the implanted magnet. CONCLUSION: When switching from percutaneous osseointegrated auditory implant to transcutaneous system in case of high risk of skin intolerance, this procedure may provide sufficient tissue coverage to prevent skin intolerance, pain and delayed extrusion.