Individual Earmuff During Reconstruction of the Auricle

Abstract

Auricular reconstruction represents one of the most demanding challenges in craniofacial surgery. But some of the complications may be stimulated by trauma or continuing pressures. Therefore, earmuff is important to the reconstructed ears as a protective guard. The widely used traditional earmuff was designed by Tanzer and Chaisson. We renovated a more comfortable and much safer individual earmuffs using a low-temperature thermoplastic splint. The low-temperature thermoplastic splint was softened by hot water at 60°C to 70°C. Afterward, the low-temperature thermoplastic splint was stretched over an oval plaster mold. Then, it was fabricated, followed by trimming of the excess material, leaving a quarter-inch flange attached to the cup. Individualized adjustment of the earmuff was performed by immersing in hot water at 60°C to 70°C. When intenerated, it was placed around the reconstructed ear for 10 to 15 minutes until completion of shaping could be achieved. Finally, the earmuff was fixed with elastic band, which was based on the size of child's head circumference and could be adjusted for the patient's comfort. The individualized earmuff was applied in more than 400 patients after surgery of microtia reconstruction. Such individualized earmuffs are proved to provide sufficient protection, while leaving no major problems. The individual earmuff provides effective protection, secure fit, and comfort for the reconstructed ear.