External auditory canal defect management and reconstruction.

Abstract

The external auditory canal (EAC) is an area commonly involved by skin cancers. Knowledge of the anatomy of this area and proper evaluation and management of patients with these malignancies is essential. The purpose of this article is to provide the reader with an understanding of the anatomy of the EAC, the options available for the treatment of EAC cancers, and repair of the resulting surgical defects. A review of the current literature was performed to summarize the current literature on this topic. There are a variety of surgical options available for the treatment of these cancers whose use depends on the location and extent of the tumor. It is important to follow a logical reconstructive algorithm after tumor resection to optimize both functional and cosmetic results.