Selection and application in the approach of Bonebridge implantation for bilateral congenital malformation of external and middle ear: selection and application

Abstract

Objective:According to whether auricle reconstruction has been performed before the implantation of Bonebridge, the different surgical plan of combination of ear reconstruction and hearing rehabilitation with Bonebridge were respectively applied for the individuals with congenital outer and middle ear malformation. The study aim to explore the feasibility of personalized comprehensive treatment of congenital outer and middle ear malformation. Methods:We developed individualized surgical plans of Bonebridge implantation and auricular reconstruction for 35 patients with bilateral external and middle ear malformation. Six patients underwent Bonebridge implantation on one side, and the post-auricular skin expander implantation on the other sidesimultaneously; seven patients underwent Bonebridge implantation at the same time as the second stage of auricular reconstruction; twenty-two patients had their Bonebridge implantations performed after the reconstruction of the auricles. Results:No intraoperative complications occured in 35 patients. No facial paralysis, vertigo, tinnitus and cerebrospinal fluid leakage was reported. One patient had skin infection after Bonebridge implantation. The Bonebridge was removed and 7 months later and the Bonebridge implantation was re-performed on the same side. No complication occurred after 16 months of follow-up. Conclusion:According to the individual condition of the patients, different surgical plans of Bonebridge implantation and auricular reconstruction can be selected personally, which is beneficial to obtain the ideal aesthetic and hearing outcome.