Anterior Scoring Technique in Otoplasty

Abstract

Anterior scoring of the auricular cartilage in otoplasty has been used for many decades to create the antihelical fold. Many authors propose a minimal access to the anterior surface of the cartilage with subcutaneous scoring of the cartilage in addition to sutures to create the antihelical fold. Others widely expose the anterior surface of the auricular cartilage to score under direct vision with or without sutures to control the position of the antihelical fold. The technique we describe provides a wide exposure of the anterior surface of the auricle to weaken the cartilage and create a smooth regular antihelical fold without the addition of any permanent sutures. It also produces a simultaneous correction of the height of the concha. The position of the helix is corrected by a subcutaneous section of the root of the helix to control the prominence of the upper third, and the cauda helicis is fixed behind the concha to control the position of the lobule. It is a versatile technique useful to correct many ear deformities since every part of the auricle is accessible.