Update on Total Auricular Construction.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand principles of preoperative planning for microtia repair. 2. Understand key techniques for flap design, skin envelope dissection, framework creation, and donor-site reconstruction. 3. Describe important components of postoperative management. SUMMARY: Total auricular construction remains a challenge for reconstructive surgeons. This article describes current surgical strategies and advancements for microtia construction. The authors' focus is to describe the several keys for success that are useful for young surgeons who wish to train themselves to create satisfactory results.

Relocation of polyotia tissue to reconstruct the tragus and fill the preauricular depression.

OBJECTIVES: The present article introduces a lingual composite tissue flap based on the tragus-like structure for correcting polyotia deformity, with the aim of providing a surgical technique that involves relocating polyotia tissue to reconstruct the tragus and fill the preauricular depression. METHODS: The study included a total of 21 patients with polyotia who underwent lingual composite tissue flap reconstruction between January 2020 to December 2022. Patients were retrospectively assessed through a comprehensive review of their medical records and photographic data. Tragus morphology was evaluated based on the measurements of tragus length and width. The Aesthetic Outcomes Scale (AOS), modified Vancouver Scar Scale (mVSS), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were employed for the assessment of surgical outcomes. RESULTS: The follow-up period for all patients ranged from 6 to 15 months. The length and width of the normal tragus were not significantly different from those of the reconstructed tragus. The mean preoperative AOS score was 2.73 ± 0.51, while the mean postoperative AOS score increased to 7.61 ± 0.65. The mVSS yielded an average score of 1.80 ± 1.43, indicating inconspicuous scarring post polyotia surgery. The preoperative VAS satisfaction score was recorded as 1.57 ± 0.67, while the postoperative VAS score significantly increased to 8.33 ± 0.91. The flaps all successfully survived post-operation without any occurrences of flap hematoma, necrosis, infection, or wound dehiscence. CONCLUSION: The reconstruction of the tragus should be given careful consideration when addressing polyotia. The utilization of a lingual composite tissue flap for correction can achieve excellent aesthetic results for the tragus, with high patient satisfaction and minimal complications.

Retrospective study on unilateral polyotia combined with microtia utilizing the technique of preserving residual ear tissue.

BACKGROUND: The presence of polyotia in individuals with microtia is a rare deformity. Due to the intricate structure of the auricle, uncertain etiology, and challenging corrective techniques, it has always been a focal point in the field of plastic surgery. The present study presents a technique for correcting the combination of polyotia and microtia by utilizing residual ear tissue as graft material. METHODS: The retrospective study included 23 patients with polyotia and microtia from 2018 to 2022. The residual ear tissue was used to rectify auricular deformities in all patients. The patients were instructed to evaluate the satisfaction of the auricle shape using a visual analog scale (VAS) both before and 6 months after the surgical procedure. The esthetic outcomes of auricle subunits were simultaneously assessed by a senior physician pre- and postoperatively. RESULTS: The mean duration of follow-up in this study was 8.73 months. The preoperative VAS satisfaction score was recorded as 2.26 ± 0.86, while the post-operative VAS score significantly increased to 7.86 ± 0.86. The preoperative auricle esthetic outcomes score was recorded as 9.95 ± 1.74, while the post-operative score significantly increased to 24.04 ± 2.16. The follow-up period did not present any cases of flap necrosis, hematoma, infection, or wound dehiscence. CONCLUSION: The study demonstrates that comprehensive utilization of residual auricular tissue can lead to optimal outcomes in correcting polyotia with concha-type microtia. The utilization of residual ear tissue can be maximized to streamline the operation, minimize bodily harm, and enhance patient satisfaction.

Prograde transposition for anteriorly low-set earlobe in lobule-type microtia reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Lobule transposition, a common procedure in auricle reconstruction, has been successfully performed over the past few decades. However, the transposition methods for unilateral microtia with evident asymmetry of bilateral earlobe positions still remain a challenge. The objective of this study was to investigate the application of prograde transposition for anteriorly low-set earlobes. METHOD: A total of 25 patients with lobule-type microtia with anteriorly low-set residual earlobe underwent prograde transposition during auricle reconstruction between 2020 and 2022. The post-operative earlobe aesthetic assessment and patient satisfaction were evaluated, and the data on any complications that occurred when followed-up were collected. This study provides a comprehensive analysis and summary of the techniques used in earlobe transposition for auricular reconstruction. RESULTS: The patients with evident asymmetry between the residual and healthy earlobes were usually concomitant with hemifacial microsomia and the residual ear was located in the anterior and lower region. No instances of flap necrosis, hematoma, or wound dehiscence were observed following auricular reconstruction. The mean aesthetic score of the auricle was 3.52, with 23 patients attaining good or excellent aesthetic outcomes. The mean Visual Analog Scale satisfaction score was 3.68, with 24 patients reporting relative satisfaction or satisfaction. CONCLUSION: The prograde transposition of anteriorly low-set earlobe in lobule-type microtia reconstruction can effectively ensure adequate blood supply, enhance aesthetic appearance, and significantly improve patient satisfaction.

Perioperative position management of 46 cases with simultaneous bilateral auricle reconstruction: A summary of experience.

OBJECTIVES: The primary problem in simultaneous bilateral auricle reconstruction is the fragility of the reconstructed ear structure. Postoperative pressure is strictly prohibited to ensure the operation's effectiveness. The study aimed to summarize the experience of perioperative postural management in simultaneous bilateral auricular reconstruction. METHOD: This study summarizes the experience of perioperative postural management, providing preoperative sleeping posture adaptability training, neck movement training, standardization of the head position angles and the head suspension time in surgery, using protective headrests, paying attention to the transfer and handover procedures, and using specially designed pillows. RESULTS: The comprehensive nursing approach in simultaneous bilateral auricular reconstruction significantly reduced complications, improved patient comfort, and optimized postoperative adaptation. Preoperative posture training, standardized intraoperative head positions, and vigilant postoperative care played pivotal roles, demonstrating positive outcomes in 46 cases. DISCUSSION: Perioperative position management can reduce the risk of complications and pressure injuries, improving patients' postoperative comfort, emotional state, tolerance, and adaptability. CONCLUSION: All ears were viable and in good shape after long-term follow-up. The experiences discussed in this study can be broadly applied to technically mature ear reconstruction teams.

Tunnelised superiorly based preauricular flap and conchal cartilage graft for antihelix reconstruction.

Reconstruction of a full-thickness defect of the auricle's anterior surface represents a challenge for plastic surgeons. This report describes the case of a man in his 70s, who underwent radical excision of a squamous cell carcinoma involving his right antihelix. We adopted an innovative approach for the reconstruction of the antihelix, using a tunnelled preauricular flap reinforced with an ipsilateral concha cartilage graft. The flap's base was de-epithelialised, allowing a single-stage procedure. Three months postoperation, no complications arose, and the scars at the donor site were effectively concealed. The aesthetic result was excellent, thanks to the perfect colour match, symmetry, shape of the auricle and the long-lasting integrity of the antihelical structure.This technique allows for accurate reconstruction of the convoluted surface of the auricle in cases of full-thickness defects of the antihelix, without the need to harvest cartilage from other donor sites and in a single surgical procedure.

The Auricular Injection Technique: A New Treatment for Lying Ear.

SUMMARY: Lying-ear deformity refers to an auricle that bends backward excessively, is excessively folded against the head, and has a very prominent antihelix. It usually requires experienced surgeons to perform surgical treatment and a prolonged postoperative recovery process. This article proposes a simple and effective hyaluronic acid injection technique that significantly improves the shape of the outer ear and enhances perceived facial aesthetics. Twenty patients underwent treatment with multiple injections. Measure-related parameters were used to evaluate the postoperative effect, and the results were graded using a visual analog scale. Interrater reliability among graders was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients. After treatment, no serious complications, such as infection or embolism, occurred. Six months after the procedure, the average auriculocephalic angle increased from 25.11 ± 9.46 to 32.72 ± 8.29 degrees, the average conchoscaphal angle increased from 87.69 ± 9.06 to 95.94 ± 7.11 degrees, and patients' average visual analog scale score increased from 4.40 ± 1.14 to 8.57 ± 0.68. Interrater reliability was fair to good for visual analog scale before injection and 6 months after injection (intraclass correlation coefficients, 0.49 and 0.45, respectively; both P < 0.001). The patients were satisfied with the injection process and results. This injection protocol improved the shape of the outer ear, resulting in excellent postoperative outcomes.

The Ram Graft: Using One Complete Piece of Conchal Cartilage for Nasal Tip Reconstruction in East Asians.

SUMMARY: Adequate nasal tip projection remains a challenge in aesthetic rhinoplasty for East Asians. Various surgical techniques have been developed to reshape the nasal tip using auricular cartilage. In this article, we introduce the new ram graft to increase nasal tip projection by using one complete piece of conchal cartilage. Between 2019 and 2021, 19 patients who underwent nasal tip reconstruction using ram grafts were reviewed in a single hospital. The complication rate, satisfaction rate, and changes in nasolabial angle and nasal proportion were recorded. Nineteen patients with a mean age (± SD) of 28.9 ± 6.1 years underwent nasal tip reconstruction. The mean follow-up time was 15.4 ± 6.6 months. Nasolabial angle increased from 87.4 ± 10.0 degrees to 91.2 ± 10.2 degrees ( P > 0.05). Sixteen of 19 patients (84.2%) were satisfied with their results. The nasal length-to-nasal tip projection-to-dorsal height-to-radix height ratio is 2:0.8:0.62:0.19 preoperatively and 2:0.92:0.77:0.35 postoperatively. Complications including alloplast-related infection (two of 19) and septal extension graft-related decrease of nasal tip projection (one of 19) were recorded. By using one complete piece of conchal cartilage, the ram graft is a simple and effective approach to increase nasal tip projection for East Asians. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Reconstruction of Concha-Type Microtia Using a Delayed Postauricular Skin Flap.

SUMMARY: Understanding how to remove and retain the relatively large residual auricle is important in concha-type microtia reconstruction. The authors present a method for concha-type microtia reconstruction using a delayed postauricular skin flap. A total of 40 patients with concha-type microtia who underwent ear reconstruction using a delayed postauricular skin flap were retrospectively examined. Reconstruction was performed in three stages. The first stage consisted of preparing a delayed postauricular skin flap and dealing with the residual auricle including removal of the upper residual auricular cartilage. In the second stage, an autogenous rib cartilage framework was placed and covered with a delayed postauricular skin flap, postauricular fascia flap, and autologous medium-thickness skin graft. The ear framework was carefully articulated and secured with the retained residual auricular cartilage to achieve a smooth junction between the two. The third stage involved modification of the reconstructed ear. Patients were followed up for 12 months after ear reconstruction. All reconstructed auricles had a good appearance, and there was a smooth connection between the reconstructed auricle and the residual ear, with similar color as well as a flat and thin scar. All patients were satisfied with the results. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Optimal surgical timing for ear reconstruction with autologous cartilage: Analysis of the computed tomography scan characteristics of the ribs.

BACKGROUND: The approach to constructing the cartilage framework for ear reconstruction is sufficiently established. However, there is still no consensus about the age of initiation of surgical treatment. This study aims to assess the development and growth of the costal cartilage to determine the best age to perform ear reconstruction surgery. METHODS: Out of 107 patients, we used presurgical treatment data for 40 patients and medical records for 67 patients aged 5-40. Computed tomography (CT) scans were performed, and average parameters were calculated (length, width, thickness, cartilage density, and standard deviation in Hounsfield units) of the cartilaginous part of the 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th ribs. RESULTS: The required values were reached at 9-10 years old. CONCLUSION: The criteria for starting surgical treatment in the Russian population was determined by the width of the 6th-7th ribs synchondrosis, which must be equal to the width of a healthy auricle, and the length of the 8th rib should be longer than 9 cm. Therefore, the optimal age for ear reconstruction with autologous costal cartilage is 10 years and older. However, reconstruction can be made earlier in specific cases, according to height and weight and the preoperative CT scan.

Question Mark Ear: An Unusual Anomaly and a Novel Surgical Technique for Reconstruction.

The question mark ear is a rare abnormality characterized by a cleft between the helix and the earlobe, resulting in a protrusion of the upper part of the ear. The severity of this ear malformation can range from a minor notch in the helix to a complete separation of the helix and the earlobe. In this study, we present a case of a patient with a moderately severe right-sided unilateral question mark deformity. To address this issue, we utilized a novel technique that involves a combination of a Y-V flap with double opposing Z-plasty. Our clinical study demonstrates that using this technique for reconstructing the deformity yields excellent results in terms of the helical rim and fold contour, utilizing solely the local tissues.

Partial Central Anterior Reconstruction of the Auricle with One-Stage Combined Retroauricular Flaps.

SUMMARY: Basal cell carcinomas of the central anterior area of the auricle limited to the antihelix and scapha without peripheral infiltration of the helix are not uncommon. Resection is rarely transfixing, but resection of the underlying cartilage is often required. The complex anatomy of the ear and the lack of local tissue available makes its reparation challenging. Defects of antihelix and scapha require special reconstructive techniques, taking into account skin structure and the three-dimensional architecture of the ear. The reconstruction usually consists of full-thickness skin grafting or anterior transposition flap, requiring an extended skin resection. The authors describe a one-stage technique that uses a pedicled retroauricular skin flap turned over the anterior defect, followed by immediate closure of the donor site with a transposition or a bilobed retroauricular skin flap. The one-stage combined retroauricular flap reparation optimizes cosmetic outcome and reduces the risk of successive surgical procedures.

Long-Term Effectiveness of Ear Molding and Factors Affecting Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The EarWell System offers a correction opportunity for infants born with ear anomalies. However, the long-term effectiveness of ear molding remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the long-term effectiveness of this novel technique and to determine the risk factors for recurrence. METHODS: This retrospective, population-based cohort study was performed from 2017 through 2021. Infants who completed ear molding therapy and were followed up for longer than 6 months were enrolled. The main outcomes were immediate and long-term efficacy, which were graded by two blinded plastic surgeons. RESULTS: A total of 226 infants (334 ears) were recruited. The most common anomalies were helical deformities [113 ears (33.8%)], and the rarest were cryptotia [five ears (1.5%)] and conchal crus [five ears (1.5%)]. The age at initiation of treatment was a factor affecting both immediate ( P = 0.004) and long-term effectiveness ( P = 0.009). The type of anomaly also influenced long-term molding outcomes. For cup ears, the success rate of long-term outcomes (76.0%) was significantly lower than that of immediate outcomes (98.7%) ( P < 0.001). Prominent ear, cup ear, and microtia were found to be the most likely to relapse during long-term follow-up. The results of logistic regression also demonstrated age, duration time, and the type of anomaly to be risk factors of ear molding effects. CONCLUSIONS: The EarWell System was shown to be a secure and effective method for treatment of congenital ear anomalies. Some infants' ear anomalies recurred after successful immediate results. The age at initiation of treatment and the type of anomaly were predictors of long-term outcomes. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Risk, III.

Treatment of auricular pseudocysts using enhanced negative drainage: a prospective study of 21 cases.

OBJECTIVE: Auricular pseudocysts are rare, painless, benign intracartilaginous cysts of the auricle that are not lined by epithelium and have no known aetiology. METHOD: This was a prospective study conducted in an ENT department from January 2020 to June 2022. In 21 patients, complete aspiration of the pseudocyst with enhanced negative drainage was performed. They were followed for a minimum of six months. RESULTS: All patients completely responded to the negative drainage treatment. No cases of recurrence or obvious deformities were observed. CONCLUSION: Aspiration with intensified negative drainage was associated with a positive response in patients with auricular pseudocysts. Complete resolution of the swelling can be achieved without any serious complications. Thus, it appears to be a simple and effective method for managing the condition.

[3D printing in plastic surgery, an accessible tool: Technical note around a case of otopoiesis assisted by 3D model]. / L'impression 3D en chirurgie plastique, un outil accessible : note technique autour d'un cas d'otopoïèse assistée par modèle 3D.

3D printing has been used in the medical field since the beginning of the 21st century. Over the years, it has been democratized and has become an accessible tool at almost no cost, provided that a 3D printer is available. The surgeon can thus easily integrate it into his practice and techniques in the operating room, provided that he learns to use 3D image processing software. In order to illustrate the whole process, from the genesis and processing of the 3D image to its application in the operating room, we describe the case of a patient with a left auricle amputation, whose reconstruction was guided by a 3D model printed from his right ear.

Reconstruction of Upper Third Defect of the Auricle by Conchal Cartilage Graft and Coverage by Postauricular Flap.

BACKGROUND: The defects of the upper third of the auricle are considered significant reconstructive challenges, as they require frequent operations with a high risk of morbidity at the donor site and result in unacceptable cosmetic abnormalities. OBJECTIVE: Is to perform the reconstruction of a full-thickness auricular defect located in the upper third of the ear using a conchal cartilage graft with postauricular flap coverage, aiming to minimize both donor and recipient morbidity. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The current study included 20 patients with unilateral upper-third auricular defects. The repair involved 2 components: a cartilage graft from the concha to provide structural support and a flap for coverage. Follow-up was conducted for 6 months after the operation. RESULTS: Successful outcomes were achieved in both subjective and doctors' assessments. Regarding subjective outcomes, 85% of the patients reported high satisfaction (P < .001). In terms of doctors' subjective assessment, 90% of the patients had excellent results (P < .001). Mild early and postoperative complications, if encountered, resolved spontaneously. CONCLUSION: The use of a combined conchal cartilage graft and postauricular flap in treating a full-thickness upper third auricular defect is safe and effective, with no major complications. The technique preserves the cosmetic and functional outcomes of the auricle, providing an excellent color match and minimal donor-site morbidity.

Reconstruction of Full-Thickness Helical Defects Using a Superior Auricular Artery-Based Postauricular Chondrocutaneous Flap.

BACKGROUND: The helix is the most common localization of auricular defects. Various techniques have been successfully used for the reconstruction of helical defects. However, redistributing the remaining auricular tissue to supply an ideal reconstruction base provides the best possible esthetic outcomes. The aim of this study is to present a new design for a postauricular chondrocutaneous flap to reconstruct the 3-dimensional curve and the folded structures in full-thickness helical defects. METHODS: Nineteen patients with full-thickness helical defects were treated with the superior pedicle chondrocutaneous flap based on the superior auricular artery. The flap was designed on the postauricular area and comprised 3 sections, namely, deepithelialized, chondrocutaneous, and cutaneous sections (proximal to distal). Levels of patient's satisfaction on the final shape and auricular symmetry, and tissue compatibility between the flap and surrounding tissues were evaluated by the patients and objective observers. RESULTS: The overall dimensions, projections, and curved structures of the defective helix maintained a smooth and contiguous appearance without asymmetry, notching, or trap-door deformities. The color, texture, and thickness of the flaps matched well with the adjacent auricles, and there was a moderate positive correlation between patient (9.47 ± 0.51) and observer (8.68 ± 0.63) correlation scores (r = 0.7485). The vast majority of the patients were very satisfied with the surgical outcome, and there was a statistically significant improvement in patient satisfaction (mean preoperative score, 1.26 ± 0.45; mean 12-month score, 4.79 ± 0.42; P < 0.00001). CONCLUSIONS: Reconstruction of full-thickness helical defects requires "like tissue" characteristics and 3-dimensional cartilage support to avoid depression and notch deformities. The postauricular chondrocutaneous flap based on the superior auricular artery was shown to preserve the helical curve and folded sulcus, retain the size and subunits of the auricle, and ensure a color, texture, and thickness match between the flap and the adjacent tissues.