Auricle Defect Research Articles

Ear Reconstruction for Auricle Defects Using an Expanded Neck Flap: A Case Report.

This case report describes a patient with a left ear deformity resulting from a flame burn sustained 20 years ago. The patient underwent an ear reconstruction procedure utilizing an expanded neck flap. The autologous rib cartilage was used as the framework, while an expanded neck flap served as the covering for the framework. The surgery was completed in 3 stages. Initially, tissue expanders were implanted and gradually inflated with water. After sufficient expansion, the expanders were removed, and the scar tissue was excised. Subsequently, the expanded flap was used to cover the defects, and the expanded neck flap was rotated to cover the autogenous costal cartilage framework obtained intraoperatively. Finally, the reconstructed ear was repaired by constructing the cephaloauricular sulcus, removing postauricular scars, and trimming the neck-flap pedicle. After a 1-year follow-up, the wound had healed satisfactorily with only minor complications. The shape of the reconstructed ear appeared realistic, and its function was maintained. Most of the scars were repaired, and the scarred alopecia was significantly improved. In patients with limited availability of the postauricular flap, especially burn patients, using an expanded neck flap can lead to superior outcomes.

Aesthetic Auricle Reconstruction with the Dieffenbach Flap: A Retrospective Case Review.

The Dieffenbach flap is often used for post-Mohs reconstruction of auricle defects, effectively restoring the auricle rim. However, its impact on auricle projection and length after division and inset is not well-documented. This study evaluates auricle projection and length following defect repair with the Dieffenbach flap, comparing results to the nonoperative ear. We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent a Dieffenbach flap repair surgery at a single institution from 2016 to 2023. Auricle projection and length of the reconstructed ear were measured within the first month following division and inset of the flap and compared with the contralateral ear. A subset of patients had additional measurements > 1 month following division and inset, and these measurements were compared with the contralateral ear. Our study included 23 patients with an average age 67.4 years and 78.3% male. Within 1 month following division and inset, the Dieffenbach flap resulted in a significant decrease in auricle projection (16.5 vs. 18.6 mm, p < 0.05) and length (67.0 vs. 69.7 mm, p < 0.05) compared with the contralateral ear. Subsequent follow-up showed no significant differences in projection (18.5 vs. 18.5 mm, p = 0.98) or length (68.0 vs. 68.7 mm, p = 0.54). Following division and inset of the Dieffenbach flap, auricle projection and length experience initial reduction but subsequently self-correct to match the contralateral ear.

Repair of Adjacent Superior Helix and Posterior Auricle Defects.

Repair of Adjacent Superior Helix and Posterior Auricle Defects.

Creating a re-expanded prefabricated island flap constructed with an anastomosed vascular pedicle for burned ear reconstruction: a case report

The combined use of various flap techniques has rapidly improved the reconstruction quality of auricle defects that are complicated by a scarcity of periauricular skin after severe burns. Nevertheless, there is still no preferable method when the optimal alternative skin to cover the auricular framework is unavailable and the periauricular vascular network is devastated. Copious scars were observed in the periauricular region, neck, forearm, and supraclavicular region of a 19-year-old man. He had been burned by high-voltage electricity and exhibited a right auricular defect. We innovatively created a prefabricated expanded island flap constructed with an anastomosed vascular pedicle buried in the anterior thoracic chest, followed by flap transfer, tissue re-expansion, and sculpted autologous costal cartilage implantation. The remnant ear was successfully reconstructed in a three-stage surgical procedure. All the flaps survived well without any complications. The reconstructed right ear had a natural shape and a clear structure without apparent displacement and deformation during follow-up. The patient was satisfied with the final appearance, and his neck mobility markedly improved. Advantages and disadvantages were discussed. This procedure explored a novel solution to construct an auricular framework covering for patients who do not have high-quality donor skin and lack anastomotic vessels in the recipient area.

Digital workflow for auricular prosthesis fabrication with a negative mold

A prosthesis for a patient with a complete auricle defect can be fabricated with computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing, significantly reducing the number of patient visits and improving the efficiency of the production process. This technique provides a digital workflow for designing virtual patterns and negative molds for an auricular prosthesis.

Reconstructive otoplasty in post-burn scar deformation of the parotid area

The result of using the temporal fascial flap in combination with autodermoplasty in the reconstruction of the total postburn auricle and parotid area defect is presented in this paper. The techniques of reconstructive otoplasty in conditions of cicatricial process of parotid zone are described.

Clinical study of the autologous concha cartilage transplantation to repair the auricle defect

Objective:To investigate the curative effect of the auricular defect repaired by the autologous concha cartilage. Methods:Seven cases with the auricular defect were repaired using the autologeous concha cartilage which combined with the retroauricular flap or retroauricular fascia with skin graftin. Results:Total 7 patients were followed up for 6 months after the surgery. The shape and size of the repaired ears were similar to the healthy ears. The teansplanted cartilages were not absorbed or deformed. Conclusion:This method is harmless and simple,which has reliable and satisfactory effects on auricle defect. We can operate under local anethesia and avoid cutting the rib cartilage.

Tunneled Flaps: An Ingenious Reconstructive Option for Anterior Auricle Defects.

Background:The anterior surface of the auricle is especially susceptible to a variety of traumatic insults and cutaneous malignancies. However, given the unique anatomy of this structure and the lack of local tissue available, the reconstruction of these defects is still a challenge. Despite of their positive outcomes, tunneled flaps have not been thoroughly explored in the literature.Objectives:To review the clinical utility of tunneled flaps in reconstructing anterior auricle defects.Materials and methods:A review of the literature on surgical reconstruction of the anterior auricle surface was performed in PubMed, with specific reference to tunneled flaps.Conclusions:When designed and executed properly, tunneled flaps offer unrivalled opportunities to reconstruct anterior auricle defects, with maximal preservation of the symmetry.

Repair of skin and soft tissue defects of auricle and donor site with relay flap

To investigate the effectiveness of relay flap on repairing skin and soft tissue defect of auricle and donor site. Between May 2014 and January 2016, 10 patients with auricular tumor were repaired by relay flap. There were 4 males and 6 females with an average age of 35 years (range, 21-69 years). There were basal cell carcinoma in 2 cases, pigmented nevus in 3 cases, papilloma in 4 cases, and Bowen's disease in 1 case. The size of the residual wound after tumor resection ranged from 1.1 cm×1.0 cm to 2.3 cm×1.7 cm. The superficial temporal artery posterior auricular perforator flap was used to repair the auricle defect wound. The size of flap ranged from 1.5 cm×1.4 cm to 2.8 cm×2.0 cm. The first donor site was repaired with the posterior auricular artery perforator propulsive flap. The size of flap ranged from 4.0 cm×2.0 cm to 7.5 cm×3.0 cm. The wound of the second donor site was sutured directly at the first stage. All the flaps survived. The donor and recipient sites healed by first intention. The patients were followed up 10-28 months, with an average of 14.2 months. The appearance of reconstructed auricle was satisfactory, and the tumor had no recurrence. The appearance, color, texture, and thickness of the flaps were basically consistent with the recipient site, without obvious scar, traction deformity, or obvious abnormal sensation. The relay flap has advantages of reliable blood supply, the simple operation method, the concealed donor site, which is a good choice to repair the skin and soft tissue defect of auricle and donor site.

Surgical treatment progress of acquired auricular defects

To review the surgical treatment progress in repair and reconstruction of acquired auricle defects. The related literature concerning the surgical methods and techniques for acquired auricle defects was reviewed and summarized. In order to attain an aesthetic ear with a clear structure, the location, size, and condition of surrounding skin must be taken into account when planning excision and repair. The application of tissue engineering and digital technology for acquired auricle defects can achieve a satisfactory effectiveness. The surgical programs for acquired auricular defects have been constantly improved in recent years, and the emerging medical technologies also play a promoting role in the process, which providing a great deal of reference for obtaining structurally clear and stereoscopic auricle.

The Use of Temporoparietal Fascia Flap for Surgical Treatment of Traumatic Auricle Defects.

Background:Auricular reconstruction is 1 of the biggest challenges of facial plastic surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of 1-stage reconstruction of an auricle using a temporoparietal fascia flap (TPFF).Methods:In this nonrandomized study, autologous auricle bodies with emergency condition and cartilaginous graft from projection of a costal arch from the VI–VII ribs were used. Temporal fascia sample with vascular pedicle (a temporal artery with the accompanying veins) by the Z-shaped incision of skin in temporal area for auricular reconstruction was extracted. Skin grafts were taken from the supraclavicular area or from the left or right flank. Grafts of partial auricle bodies (n = 8) along with cartilaginous framework from a costal arch (n = 21) were used for auricle reconstruction. The follow-up period studied after 6 months in 29 operated patients.Results:The graft of partial auricle bodies or the graft of a cartilaginous framework from a costal arch presented a perfect auricular reconstruction. By avoiding a difficult microsurgery and its possible complications, the use of TPFF led to beneficial results in 75% and 90.4% of cases, respectively. Overall, no major complication (alopecia, hematoma, or necrosis) occurred, and further surgery was not required.Conclusion:TPFF is a technique of choice for surgical treatment of traumatic auricle defects.

Identification and Documentation of Auricle Defects using Three-dimensional Optical Measurements

Auricle defects are important and common occurrences in forensic medicine. The accurate measurement and assessment of auricle defects is key to identifying and evaluating injury, and the currently available methods are known to be labor intensive and inaccurate. In this paper, we introduce an identification and documentation of auricle defects solution, which consists of an optical three-dimensional (3D) method and an effective algorithm to calculate the maximum projection area and identify auricle defects. In this study, three separate examiners measured 40 auricles of 20 adults using 3D optical measurement and two other commonly used methods to investigate the validity and representative reliability of 3D optical measurement for auricle defect identification. Based on the statistical analysis, the 3D measurement method is valid and showed a better reliability than the reference methods. We also present a representative auricle defect identification case using the proposed 3D optical measurement method. The study concludes that the optical 3D measurement method is a reliable and effective tool for auricle defect identification.

Application of negative molds technology based on three-dimensional printing in digital maxillofacial prostheses

Objective: To explore a digital negative molds technique based on three-dimensional (3D) printing to assist in the manufacture of maxillofacial prostheses, and to improve the deficiency of the current clinical treatment. Methods: Seventeen patients with maxillofacial defects (including nasal defects, orbital defects, cheek defects, auricle defect) were scanned by means of facial optical scanning and computer tomography (CT). The 3D models were then reconstructed and global registration was made to merge the reconstructed models into a new digital model for 3D design. The 3D design of the prostheses was implemented in software. The mechanical connection structure was designed by forward engineering technology for 3 patients with intra-oral defects in maxilla who needed to make removable partial dentures, so that the silicone prostheses and removable partial denture could be combined. The removable partial dentures were made by conventional method and connected with the prostheses. According to the 3D data of the prostheses, the digital negative molds were designed, and the 3D printing technology was used to finish the processing of the resin molds. Silicone for prostheses were filled and cured in the resin molds to fabricate the clinical restorations for the patients. The margin adaptation and retention of the prostheses was detected. Results: Twenty patients with varying degrees of maxillofacial defects were rehabilitated using the courses developed in the study. All patients reported no pain or discomfort during the treatment; and they were satisfied with the final prostheses of the shape, color, retention, stability, etc. Eighteen of the prostheses showed good marginal adaptation, and sixteen of the prostheses showed good retention effect. Conclusions: The digital negative molds technique used in this study could greatly reduce the intensity of manual operation and provided a good therapeutic effect for patients with maxillofacial defects.

Reconstructive otoplasty: differentiated approach to rib cartilage processing and ear framework formation using carving technique

The aim of the research was to optimize surgical rehabilitation of patients with auricle defects and deformities by the developing of differentiated approach to the choice of reconstructive otoplasty method. The study involved 30 patients with auricle defects and deformities of congenital (20 patients) and acquired (10 patients) etiology. The defects were total in 25 patients and partial in 5 patients. All patients underwent ear reconstruction with rib cartilage using carving technique. Preoperative planning was based in Doppler ultrasound of temporal region vessels, laser Doppler flowmetry, temporal skin ultrasound and 3D ribcage CT. The surgical tactic was selected according to the possibility of mastoid region skin usage or necessity of the temporoparietal fascial flap. The approach proved to be highly efficient as otoplasty outcomes were good in 80% of cases, satisfactory in 10% and unsatisfactory in 10%.

2-Octyl-Cyanoacrylate Skin Adhesive Used as a Splinting Material in Auricular Surgery

In cases of auricular surgery, postoperative dressings are thought to be important for keeping auricular contour and in helping to prevent from dressing failures due to edema or subcutaneous hematoma, which may result in fibrous or cartilaginous proliferation. However, it is often difficult to achieve success with standard dressings because of the complicated shape of the auricle. We used 2-octyl-cyanoacrylate skin adhesive to dress the auricle after different types of auricular procedures (five cases of cryptotia, two of prominent ear, two of severe auricular laceration, two of skin grafting and one of flap repair of the partial auricle defect). The 2-octyl-cyanoacrlaate skin adhesive was applied to the suture line and the operated and peripheral areas for wider coverage. No dressing materials were placed over the surface. In all cases, the desired outcome was achieved, without subcutaneous hematoma, wound dehiscence, and wound infection. Contact dermatitis caused by the skin adhesive was not observed in any of the cases. Dressing and splinting after auricular surgery can be simply and successfully achieved using 2-octyl-cyanoacrylate skin adhesive. There is no need for more complicated dressings and post-surgical dressing changes, resulting in higher patient satisfaction.

PROSTHETIC EAR RECONSTRUCTION APPLYING COMPUTER TOMOGRAPHIC (CT) DATA AND ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGIES

The treatment of auricle defect can be by surgical or prosthetic ear rehabilitation depending on the condition. Current practice by surgeon for prosthetic ear rehabilitation require patient to go for osseointegrated craniofacial implant surgery for retention of the prosthetic ear. Impression technique play a vital role in accurate reproduction of affected and unaffected ears, orientation of the ear during wax try in and fabrication of ear prostheses. Traditionally, the wax pattern was created from the impression taken from patient and the final prosthesis is processed with silicone material. This conventional method has always been time consuming, massive work and caused discomfort to patient. Moreover the accuracy of the final prosthetic sometimes was not satisfied. Improvement in medical imaging technology whereby data from computerized tomography (CT) in 2D format can be converting to 3 dimensional images gave tremendous view for surgeon to visualize the result. A new and impressive advance in the development of additive manufacturing technology is now being able to be applied in medical field. The widespread use of computer-aided design (CAD) combine with computer aided manufacturing (CAM) produced the momentum and desire to translate the 3-D images into physical models. Studies and research have indicated the viability of using medical imaging technology, computer aided design (CAD) and additive manufacturing techniques in prosthetics. This paper proposed a novel method of fabricating the prosthetic ear applying mirror image technique to reconstruct the missing ear, and then fabricate the 3D model of the prosthetic ear using Stereolitography (SLA) technology that will become the master mold to produce the final prosthetic ear. This method eliminates the traditional wax pattern procedure. A clinical study is done onto a patient in HUSM and comparison is made between traditional method vs new approach using computer aided technology. Result showed that there is significant different between traditional and new approach design. The new method also shows time reduction during design and fabrication stage.

Mandibulofacial dysostosis (Treacher‐Collins syndrome) in the fetus: Novel association with pectus carinatum in a molecularly confirmed case and review of the fetal phenotype

Treacher Collins syndrome is the most common mandibulofacial dysostosis of autosomal dominant or, rarely, recessive inheritance. Affected fetuses may be identified by prenatal ultrasound or diagnosed at autopsy in case of perinatal death or pregnancy termination. We describe the ultrasonographic, autopsy, and molecular findings in a 25-week-gestation affected fetus, and review the clinical, prenatal, and postmortem findings in 15 previously reported fetal and perinatal cases. A nearly complete spectrum of the typical facial characteristics can be present by the early second trimester of gestation, including subtle defects such as lower eyelid colobomas. Mandibular hypoplasia and bilateral auricle defects were constant findings in the affected fetal population. Downslanting palpebral fissures were the second more common feature, followed by midface hypoplasia, polyhydramnios, and ocular defects. Association with Pierre Robin sequence was common (38%) in the reviewed series. Previously unreported pectus carinatum was noted in our case bearing a heterozygous TCOF1 mutation. Other unique reported findings include salivary gland hyperplasia, single umbilical artery, and tracheo-esophageal fistula, all in molecularly unconfirmed cases. Treacher Collins syndrome can be prenatally detected by ultrasound and should be included in the wide range of genetic syndromes that can be diagnosed at perinatal autopsy. Affected fetuses tend to have a more severe phenotype than living patients. The reported association of Treacher Collins syndrome type 1 with pectus carinatum expands the phenotype, provides information on genotype-phenotype correlation, and suggests possible pathogenetic interactions between neural crest cell disorders and the formation of the sternum that merit investigation.

Partial auricular reconstruction with porous polyethylene frameworks and superficial temporoparietal fascia flap

Untreated acquired auricular damage can be a psychological burden, especially for younger patients. The significance of auricular reconstruction in patients with microtia in terms of quality of life has already been demonstrated. In these patients the use of porous polyethylene combined with a temporoparietal fascia flap has proven to be a suitable method for achieving good cosmetic results. Here, we describe how to use porous polyethylene combined with an endoscopically harvested temporoparietal fascia flap and autologous skin grafts for the reconstruction of acquired partial auricle defects and present outcomes and patient benefit. Ten consecutive patients were asked to answer validated questionnaires [modified Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI)] determining the effects of partial ear reconstruction on their health-related quality of life. These patients were seen regularly in our outpatient clinic for documentation and postoperative counseling. All patients returned a valid questionnaire; 80% were satisfied with the esthetic result. In retrospect, all patients would again decide to undergo surgery. The mean total GBI score was 27.8 (median 29.2, p < 0.05) reflecting an improvement of the health-related quality of life due to the operation. Odd feeling, numbness and the formation of scar tissue were the main complaints. Partial auricular reconstruction using porous polyethylene combined with an endoscopically harvested temporoparietal fascia flap and autologous skin grafts yields good esthetic results and can significantly increase patient's health-related quality of life.

Prosthetic Rehabilitation of an External Auricle Defect With Silicone Rubber Using Extrinsic Staining

This clinical report describes a case of external auricle defect due to trauma. In the present report, a 23-year-old patient rehabilitated with an implant-retained 2-component room-temperature-vulcanizing silicone prosthesis showed success at the 2-year follow-up. The high-simulation prosthesis was accomplished through uniform intrinsic staining, followed by characteristic extrinsic staining and then matte finishing.

Helical advancement: Pearls and pitfalls

Reconstruction of acquired auricular defects is a challenging procedure. Since its emergence, the helical advancement technique has proved to be an excellent method of repairing many auricle defects. This technique may occasionally result in an alteration in the dimensions of the neoauricle, with subsequent deformity. However, the advantages of this technique are well known, while the pitfalls are scarce. To critically review the selection criteria of patients with acquired auricular defects to determine which are eligible for helical advancement technique without subsequent deformity. From March 2004 to January 2006, 18 patients with three types of upper one-third auricle defects underwent the helical advancement procedure. All patients were male, with mean age of 33.5 years. The defects ranged from 1.2 cm to 4.3 cm in length. Two helical flaps (one on either side of the injury) were advanced along the helical margin to ensure closure. The vertical and horizontal auricular axes were measured before and after surgery, and the actual reduction in millimetres was calculated. Patients were followed up for three months postoperatively. Assessment of the surgical outcome was performed by surgeon (with patient feedback) in the final patient visit. The principle pitfall in the form of small neoauricle with or without cupping was reported in five patients (27.77%). The defects in these cases were >2.8 cm and the mean resultant reduction in vertical axes was >5 mm. Statistical analysis resulted in χ(2)=4.24 and P=0.04. The three varieties of upper one-third auricle defects can best be corrected by the helical advancement technique when the defect is <2.8 cm. Furthermore, perioperative reduction in the vertical axis of the neoauricle >5 mm was an important predictive factor in the development of subsequent deformity.