Auricular reconstruction with autologous costal cartilage grafts and delaying postauricular skin flap

Abstract

Objective To summarize and explore the clinical effect of auricular reconstruction with autologous costal cartilage grafts and delaying postauricular skin flap.Methods The procedure involved three stages.The first stage was the delay procedure of postauricular skin flap.The second stage was the auricular reconstruction with autologous costal cartilage grafts and delaying postauricular skin flap about 3 weeks after the delay procedure.The third stage involved construction of tragus and conchal cavity and other local correction 6 months or longer after the second stage surgery.The clinical effect,patients' satisfaction and complication were observed.Results This method was used in 28 patients,31 ears of congenital microtia.23 cases completed auricular reconstruction with three stages,the other 8 cases completed only two stages.All auricular reconstruction were successful.The location,size and shape of reconstructive ears were good.The complications were few.The patients or their relatives were basically satisfactory.Conclusions Auricular reconstruction with autologous costal cartilage grafts and delaying postauricular skin flap is a safe and effective method. Key words: Auricular reconstruction; Microtia; Autologous costal cartilage; Auricle stents; Flap delay