The elevation of the constructed auricle with a temporoparietal fascial flap wrapping a resorbable plate

Abstract

During the second stage reconstruction of the auricle in patients with microtia, we modified Nagata's method and two technical improvements were possible. After the implanted auricle was separated from the bed, we harvested the temporoparietal fascial flap through helical rim incision instead of incising the temporal scalp. So the surgical scar over the temporal region was avoided. Thereafter, a costal cartilage wedge was carved and grafted to the posterior aspect of the conchal region to get a firm projection. But in cases of unavailable costal cartilage wedge graft, we used a resorbable plate composed of polylactic and polyglycolic acid as a substitute for the former so that we could create firm elevation and sufficient ear projection. Between June 2002 and May 2004, 28 patients underwent this operation with the temporoparietal fascial flap and resorbable plating system. There was no complication resulting from our technique. It was possible to create firm elevation and good frontal projection even if there was no available cartilage wedge. Additionally, by harvesting the temporoparietal fascia through helical rim incision, we avoid creating additional scars on the scalp.