Reconstruction of Cutaneous Defects of the Ear Using the Post-Auricular Reservoir: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

An approach to the reconstruction of the ear requires consideration of gross anatomy, blood supply, and size of the defect to select the repair. While skin grafts provide a convenient option for many helical and conchal defects, using posterior auricular reservoir can preserve ear contour and hide the scar for an aesthetic closure. To illustrate the versatility of the post-auricular and mastoid skin reservoir for auricular repairs after surgical removal of a cutaneous malignancy. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Databases were searched for all techniques using a post-auricular approach for auricular repair of surgical defects in the context of cutaneous oncology until November 2019. The most well-described techniques of pull-through, post-auricular pedicle and Banner flaps were selected for in-depth review. Illustrative cases and a summary of the spectrum of techniques from case reports are provided. Few randomized trials exist to compare the outcomes of the flaps to determine a preferred flap technique. A post-auricular approach for repair of auricular defects can provide a reasonable option for single and multi-staged closure to create an excellent aesthetic outcome while hiding the donor site. More prospective data is required to determine the overall best approach. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(9):883-888. doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.5106.