The Reconstruction of Full-thickness Ear Defects Including the Helix Using the Superior Pedicle Postauricular Chondrocutaneous Flap

Abstract

The ear is a complex structure with specific anatomical landmarks and different surface contour properties. In this article, we present the results that we obtained after reconstruction of full-thickness defects of the upper and middle third of the ear including the helix using a superior auricular artery (SAA) pedicled chondrocutaneous flap.In this study, 8 patients underwent reconstructions with postauricular SAA pedicled chondrocutaneous flaps between March 2009 and May 2011. Seven patients were male (88%), and 1 patient was female (12%). The age range was between 27 and 78 years, with a mean age of 57 years. The causes of the defects were tumor excisions in 6 patients and trauma in 2 patients. No serious postoperative complications such as wound infection, wound dehiscence, or partial or total flap loss were observed in any of the patients. A good cosmetic result was obtained with this technique with maximum preservation of the anatomical landmarks and without an effect on the vertical height or projection of the ear.In our experience, the postauricular SAA pedicled chondrocutaneous flap can be used as an appropriate alternative for the treatment of full-thickness defects of the upper and middle thirds of the ear including the helix.