Auricular Reconstruction Research Articles

Preclinical assessment of clinically streamlined, 3D-printed, biocompatible single- and two-stage tissue scaffolds for ear reconstruction.

Auricular reconstruction is a technically demanding procedure requiring significant surgical expertise, as the current gold standard involves hand carving of the costal cartilage into an auricular framework and re-implantation of the tissue. 3D-printing presents a powerful tool that can reduce technical demands associated with the procedure. Our group compared clinical, radiological, histological, and biomechanical outcomes in single- and two-stage 3D-printed auricular tissue scaffolds in an athymic rodent model. Briefly, an external anatomic envelope of a human auricle was created using DICOM computed tomography (CT) images and modified in design to create a two-stage, lock-in-key base and elevating platform. Single- and two-stage scaffolds were 3D-printed by laser sintering poly-L-caprolactone (PCL) then implanted subcutaneously in five athymic rats each. Rats were monitored for ulcer formation, site infection, and scaffold distortion weekly, and scaffolds were explanted at 8 weeks with analysis using microCT and histologic staining. Nonlinear finite element analysis was performed to determine areas of high strain in relation to ulcer formation. Scaffolds demonstrated precise anatomic appearance and maintenance of integrity of both anterior and posterior auricular surfaces and scaffold projection, with no statistically significant differences in complications noted between the single- and two-staged implantation. While minor superficial ulcers occurred most commonly at the lateral and superior helix coincident with finite element predictions of high skin strains, evidence of robust tissue ingrowth and angiogenesis was visible grossly and histologically. This promising preclinical small animal model supports future initiatives for making clinically viable options for an ear tissue scaffold.

Evaluation of Auricular Cartilage Reconstruction Using a 3-Dimensional Printed Biodegradable Scaffold and Autogenous Minced Auricular Cartilage

Auricular cartilage reconstruction represents one of the greatest challenges for otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. The native structure and composition of the auricular cartilage can be achieved by combining a suitable chondrogenic cell source with an appropriate scaffold. In reconstructive surgery for cartilage tissue, autogenous cartilage is considered to be the best chondrogenic cell source. Polycaprolactone is mainly used as a tissue-engineered scaffold owing to its mechanical properties, miscibility with a large range of other polymers, and biodegradability. In this study, scaffolds with or without autogenous minced auricular cartilage were implanted bilaterally in rabbits for auricular regeneration. Six weeks (n = 4) and 16 weeks (n = 4) after implantation, real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and histology were used to assess the regeneration of the auricular cartilage. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that the messenger RNA expression of aggrecan, collagen I, and collagen II was higher in scaffolds with 50% minced cartilage than the scaffold-only groups or scaffolds with 30% minced cartilage (P < 0.05). Furthermore, histological analysis demonstrated significantly superior cartilage regeneration in scaffolds with the minced cartilage group compared with the scaffold-only and control groups (P < 0.05). Autogenous cartilage can be easily obtained and loaded onto a scaffold to promote the presence of chondrogenic cells, allowing for an improvement of the reconstruction of auricular cartilage. Here, the regeneration of auricular cartilage was also successful in the 50% minced cartilage group. The results presented in this study could have clinical implications, as they demonstrate the potential of a 1-stage process for auricular reconstruction.

Modeling Normal and Pathological Ear Cartilage in vitro Using Somatic Stem Cells in Three-Dimensional Culture.

Microtia (underdeveloped ear) is a rare congenital dysmorphology affecting the development of the outer ear. Although human microtic cartilage has not been fully characterized, chondrogenic cells derived from this tissue have been proposed as a suitable source for autologous auricular reconstruction. The aim of this study was to further characterize native microtic cartilage and investigate the properties of cartilage stem/progenitor cells (CSPCs) derived from it. Two-dimensional (2D) systems are most commonly used to assess the chondrogenic potential of somatic stem cells in vitro, but limit cell interactions and differentiation. Hence here we investigated the behavior of microtic CSPCs in three-dimensional spheroid cultures. Remarkable similarities between human microtic cartilages from five patients, as compared to normal cartilage, were observed notwithstanding possibly different etiologies of the disease. Native microtic cartilage displayed poorly defined perichondrium and hyper-cellularity, an immature phenotype that resembled that of the normal developing human auricular cartilage we studied in parallel. Crucially, our analysis of microtic ears revealed for the first time that, unlike normal cartilage, microtic cartilages are vascularized. Importantly, CSPCs isolated from human microtic and normal ear cartilages were found to recapitulate many characteristics of pathological and healthy tissues, respectively, when allowed to differentiate as spheroids, but not in monolayer cultures. Noteworthily, starting from initially homogeneous cell pellets, CSPC spheroids spontaneously underwent a maturation process in culture, and formed two regions (inner and outer region) separated by a boundary, with distinct cell types that differed in chondrogenic commitment as indicated by expression of chondrogenic markers. Compared to normal ear-derived spheroids, microtic spheroids were asymmetric, hyper-cellularized and the inner and outer regions did not develop properly. Hence, their organization resembled that of native microtic cartilage. Together, our results identify novel features of microtic ears and highlight the importance of 3D self-organizing in vitro systems for better understanding somatic stem cell behavior and disease modeling. Our observations of ear-derived chondrogenic stem cell behavior have implications for choice of cells for tissue engineered reconstructive purposes and for modeling the etiopathogenesis of microtia.

Using 3D Printing Technology to Teach Cartilage Framework Carving for Ear Reconstruction.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the validity of using a carvable 3D printed rib model in combination with a 3D printed auricular framework to facilitate the teaching, training and planning of auricular reconstruction.Design: 3D printed costal cartilages from ribs 6–9 were produced using a FormLabs Form3 Printer and used to make negative molds. 2:1 silicone-cornstarch mixture was added to each mold to make 12 simulated 6–9th costal cartilages suitable for carving. 3D printed auricular frameworks were produced in polylactic acid using an Ultimaker 3 3D printer to demonstrate the component parts and constructed framework of an auricular reconstruction.Participants: Twelve plastic surgery trainees attended a workshop in which they each attempted auricular reconstruction using the carvable models and 3D printed plastic models as a guide. All candidates completed a pre- and post-training questionnaire to assess confidence and comprehension of auricular reconstruction, and the suitability of the models for facilitating this teaching.Results: Only 42% of trainees (n = 5) had observed an ear reconstruction in theater prior to the training course. Statistically significant improvements in the appreciation of the different components that make an auricular framework (p < 0.0001) and confidence in carving and handling costal cartilage (p < 0.0001) were noted following completion of the training. Highly significant improvements in comprehension of the approach to ear reconstruction (p = 0.006) and locating the subunits of a reconstructed ear from costal cartilage (p = 0.003) were also noted. 100% of participants felt the 3D printed teaching aids directly enhanced their learning.Conclusions: Ear reconstruction is a complex, time consuming multi-stage operation demanding significant amounts of experience, planning and an appreciation of the 3D chondrocutaneous structure. In this study we have demonstrated the value of 3D printing in producing a suitable simulated costal cartilage model and as an adjunct to comprehending and planning a framework for auricular reconstruction.

Improve the appearance of auriculocephalic angle in reconstructed auricular with skin flap of residual ear in patients with microtia of concha cavity

To explore the reasonable utilization of residual ear tissue after total ear reconstruction with total expansion method in patients with microtia of concha cavity, in order to obtain the best appearance. The clinical data of 150 patients with microtia of concha cavity between January 2012 and January 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 92 males and 58 females, with an average age of 11.1 years (range, 6.5-35.0 years). The shallow upper auriculocephalic angle was found after the first stage expander embedding and the second stage total expansion, and the third stage auricular reconstruction was carried out 6-12 months later. The residual earlobe was transferred through Z-plasty to reconstruct the lobe. An arc incision was made to release and deepen the upper auriculocephalic angle. And then a skin flap pedicled on the upper part of the residual ear was formed and then transferred to cover the wound on the auriculocephalic angle. The residual ear cartilage tissue flaps with subcutaneous tissue pedicle were inserted into the lacuna under the framework to increase the height of the scaffold. The remaining residual ear skin flaps were sutured to cover the wound of concha. A epidermis blister in diameter of 0.5 cm was found in 1 patient's flap at 7 days after operation, and healed after 2 weeks of dressing change. The other patients' flaps survived well. All the patients were followed up 6-12 months, with an average of 9.6 months. The auriculocephalic angle in the upper part of the reconstructed ear was obviously deepened, the height of the reconstructed ear was increased. The symmetry of the ears was better than before. The concha was not obviously contracted and the appearance of the reconstructed ear was satisfactory. The hair on the upper surface of the reconstructed ear decreased obviously, and the hairline around the ear moved up. The transfer of the upper residual auricular skin flap and residual auricular cartilage in patients with microtia of concha cavity can not only deepen the auriculocephalic angle, but also increase the height of the upper framework. The symmetry between the reconstructed auricle and the normal auricle is better than before.

Auricular reconstruction with modified expanded two-flap method in Goldenhar Syndrome: 7-Year experiences

BackgroundGoldenhar Syndrome (GS) is a systematic polymalformational disease characterized by microtia, hemifacial microsomy, ocular anomalies, abnormal vertebra and other deformities. These congenital malformations brought severe physical and mental stress to the patients. Auricular reconstruction has always been the primary appeal of the patients and their families to achieve a better facial balance and harmony. However, multiple deformities made it a great challenge to perform this technique. In this study, we reported a modified expanded two-flap method of auricular reconstruction, which is more applicable for patients with Goldenhar Syndrome. MethodsBetween January of 2012 and September of 2019, 69 cases of Goldenhar Syndrome underwent auricular reconstruction with the modified expanded two-flap technique. Auricular reconstruction was performed in three surgical stages. In the first stage, a 50 ml kidney-shaped tissue expander was embedded in mastoid region and the retroauricular skin expanded. In the second stage, the autologous rib cartilage was harvested and the ear framework fabricated. The expander was further removed, and then enveloped by the expanded flap, retroauricular fascial flap and a free skin graft. In the third stage, the reconstructed ear was further trimmed, including lobule transposition and tragus reconstruction. ResultsThe patients were followed for 6 months to 7 years. There were 63 cases (91.3%) responded satisfied outcomes in size, shape, position and bilateral symmetry. One case suffered expander leakage and tissue expansion accomplished after the expander was replaced. Hematoma was occurred in four cases and removed to complete the reconstruction. Complications of cartilage exposure were observed in one case. ConclusionModified expanded two-flap method is effective and safe in auricular reconstruction for patients of Goldenhar syndrome with long term satisfying results.Level of Evidence IV.

An analytical study of neocartilage from microtia and otoplasty surgical remnants: A possible application for BMP7 in microtia development and regeneration.

To investigate auricular reconstruction by tissue engineering means, this study compared cartilage regenerated from human chondrocytes obtained from either microtia or normal (conchal) tissues discarded from otoplasties. Isolated cells were expanded in vitro, seeded onto nanopolyglycolic acid (nanoPGA) sheets with or without addition of bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP7), and implanted in nude mice for 10 weeks. On specimen harvest, cartilage development was assessed by gross morphology, histology, and RT-qPCR and microarray analyses. Neocartilages from normal and microtia surgical tissues were found equivalent in their dimensions, qualitative degree of proteoglycan and elastic fiber staining, and quantitative gene expression levels of types II and III collagen, elastin, and SOX5. Microarray analysis, applied for the first time for normal and microtia neocartilage comparison, yielded no genes that were statistically significantly different in expression between these two sample groups. These results support use of microtia tissue as a cell source for normal auricular reconstruction. Comparison of normal and microtia cells, each seeded on nanoPGA and supplemented with BMP7 in a slow-release hydrogel, showed statistically significant differences in certain genes identified by microarray analysis. Such differences were also noted in several analyses comparing counterpart seeded cells without BMP7. Summary data suggest a possible application for BMP7 in microtia cartilage regeneration and encourage further studies to elucidate whether such genotypic differences translate to phenotypic characteristics of the human microtic ear. The present work advances understanding relevant to the potential clinical use of microtia surgical remnants as a suitable cell source for tissue engineering of the pinna.

Regeneration of human-ear-shaped cartilage with acellular cartilage matrix-based biomimetic scaffolds

Tissue engineering technology provides a promising approach for external ear reconstruction. Although the first clinical breakthrough of tissue engineered auricular reconstruction has been achieved based on polymer scaffold, the discrepant clinical efficacy among different patients triggered by residual scaffold mediated aseptic inflammatory reaction seriously hinders its further clinical application. A proper natural scaffold with low inflammatory reaction is urgently required to address this problem. Among all the natural materials, acellular cartilage matrix (ACM) is considered to be the ideal cartilage-specific microenvironmental biomimetic scaffold. However, no breakthroughs have been achieved for the regeneration of human-ear-shaped cartilage based on ACM so far. The main challenge is how to prepare ACM into a three-dimensional (3D) porous scaffold with precise human-ear shape and proper mechanical strength. In this study, ACM powder, prepared by freezing pulverization and decellularization, was successfully prepared into 3D porous scaffolds using gelatin as an auxiliary crosslinker. By optimizing proportion and concentration of ACM and gelatin, the scaffolds presented proper pore structure and degradation rate as well as good mechanical strength and biocompatibility. Furthermore, ACM/Gelatin could be fabricated into porous scaffolds with precise human-ear shape and proper mechanical strength by integrating 3D printing, polycaprolactone (PCL) inner core designing, cast molding, and freeze-drying technologies. Finally, human-ear-shaped cartilage with good elasticity and cartilage-specific extracellular matrices was successfully regenerated using the ACM/Gelatin-PCL scaffolds and auricular chondrocytes (elastic cartilage). All of these results provide important support for the application and clinical translation of human-ear-shaped cartilage.

Age- and Sex-Related Development of the Normal Human Ear in a Child Population.

A large number of researches related to auricle development have been conducted in different countries, but there were few similar studies in China, especially in Chinese children. This study was designed to investigate the auricular development by measuring normal age- and sex-related dimensions of auricles in Chinese children. A total of 900 participants were evaluated according to their age and gender. From the landmarks, the dimensions of the and tragus including length and width, the relevant indices, inclination angles were measured. The average score of each item was calculated according to age and gender. The dimensions of the and tragus including width and length showed certain developmental patterns respectively. No significantly difference was found for the inclination angles and relative indices between different age groups and different sides. The data indicated that there was a certain pattern of auricular development. There were also gender difference in the development of auricle. There were certain proportional relationships between different subunits of the auricle. These results may be useful for designing the plan of auricular reconstruction.

Sound-localisation performance in patients with congenital unilateral microtia and atresia fitted with an active middle ear implant.

This study assessed the safety and sound-localisation ability of the Vibrant Soundbridge (VSB) (Med-EL, Innsbruck, Austria) in patients with unilateral microtia and atresia (MA). This was a single-centre retrospective research study. Twelve subjects with unilateral conductive hearing loss (UCHL) caused by ipsilateral MA were recruited, each of whom underwent VSB implantation and auricular reconstruction. The bone-conduction (BC) threshold was measured postoperatively, and the accuracy of sound localisation was evaluated at least 6months after surgery. Horizontal sound-localisation performance was investigated with the VSB activated and inactivated, at varying sound stimuli levels (65, 70 and 75dB SPL). Localisation benefit was analysed via the mean absolute error (MAE). There was no statistical difference in mean BC threshold of impaired ears measured preoperatively and postoperatively. When compared with VSB-inactivated condition, the MAE increased significantly in unilateral MA patients in the VSB-activated condition. Besides, sound-localisation performance worsened remarkably when sound was presented at 70dB SPL and 75dB SPL. Regarding the side of signal location, the average MAE with the VSB device was much higher than that without the VSB when sound was from the normal-hearing ear. However, no significant difference was observed when sound was located from the impaired ear. This study demonstrates that in patients with unilateral MA, the VSB device does not affect inner-ear function. Sound-localisation ability is not improved, but deteriorated at follow-up. Our results suggest that the VSB-aided localisation abilities may be related to the thresholds between the ears, plasticity of auditory system and duration of use of VSB.

Coating Medpor® Implant with Tissue-Engineered Elastic Cartilage.

Inert biomaterials used for auricular reconstruction, which is one of the most challenging and diverse tasks in craniofacial or head and neck surgery, often cause problems such as capsule formation, infection, and skin extrusion. To solve these problems, scaffold consisting of inert biomaterial, high-density polyethylene (Medpor®) encapsulated with neocartilage, biodegradable poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) was created using a tissue engineering strategy. PLGA scaffold without Medpor® was created to serve as the control. Scaffolds were vacuum-seeded with rabbit chondrocytes, freshly isolated from the ear by enzymatic digestion. Then, cell-seeded scaffolds were implanted subcutaneously in the dorsal pockets of nude mice. After 12 weeks, explants were analyzed by histological, biochemical, and mechanical evaluations. Although the PLGA group resulted in neocartilage formation, the PLGA–Medpor® group demonstrated improved outcome with the formation of well-surrounded cartilage around the implants with higher mechanical strength than the PLGA group, indicating that Medpor® has an influence on the structural strength of engineered cartilage. The presence of collagen and elastin fibers was evident in the histological section in both groups. These results demonstrated a novel method of coating implant material with engineered cartilage to overcome the limitations of using biodegradable scaffold in cartilage tissue regeneration. By utilizing the patient’s own chondrocytes, our proposed method may broaden the choice of implant materials while minimizing side effects and immune reaction for the future medical application.

Alloplastic Auricular Reconstruction: Review of Implant Types, Adverse Events, and Aesthetic Outcomes.

Alloplastic implants have been applied successfully in reconstruction of the external ear, either for congenital microtia or traumatic injury. The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive systematic review of alloplastic implant materials utilized in the reconstruction of the external ear stratified by indication, specific implant type, postoperative complications, and aesthetic outcomes. A comprehensive systematic review of published literature on alloplastic external ear reconstruction data was conducted utilizing Medline/PubMed database without timeframe limitations in June 2019. Articles were stratified by (1) indication (microtia versus trauma reconstruction) and (2) implant material type. All postoperative complications were recorded and comparatively analyzed between implant types. Aesthetic outcomes were also identified and compared between implant types. A total of 755 patients (14 case series; follow-up range = 3 months--10 years) met the criteria for this study. Overall complication rate was 12.05% across all indications and materials used. The most frequent complications reported were graft exposure (7.8%), graft explantation (1.72%), and wound dehiscence (0.8%). Of the patients requiring graft explantation (n = 13), 7 (53.85%) received Medpor implants, and the other 6 (46.15%) were identified in silicone implants. Infection was only reported in Medpor implants. The overall rate of an acceptable aesthetic outcome was 99.34%. Alloplastic implants are a reliable means of achieving an acceptable complication profile in external ear reconstruction. While there was an overall high rate of acceptable aesthetic outcomes, the studies evaluated in this systematic review differed in their criteria for final evaluation of aesthetic outcomes.

Secondary Salvage of the Unsatisfactory Microtia Reconstruction.

Because auricular reconstruction is a complex and relatively uncommon procedure, there are many patients that have had disappointing reconstructions. This study describes the authors' large experience with secondary procedures in patients with unsatisfactory or failed initial ear reconstruction. A prospectively maintained database of all consecutive patients who underwent secondary total ear reconstruction from March of 1991 to December of 2017 was reviewed. Demographic data and outcomes were assessed. Patients with acquired absence of the ear were not included. There were 144 microtia patients that met the inclusion criteria. Patient age at the time of the secondary reconstruction ranged from 3 to 59 years. Follow-up duration ranged from 1 to 21 years. Primary reconstruction was performed with rib cartilage in 91 patients, porous polyethylene implant in 47 patients, prosthesis in four patients, and irradiated cadaver rib cartilage in two patients. All secondary reconstructions were performed with porous polyethylene implants. The alloplastic framework was covered with a temporoparietal fascia flap in 76 patients, an occipital fascia flap in 64 patients, and a free fascia flap in four patients (two radial forearm flaps in the same patient, one contralateral temporoparietal fascia flap, and one lateral arm flap). Fourteen patients (10 percent) had complications requiring revision surgery. Secondary surgery was successful in all but one patient. These data represent the largest series of secondary total ear reconstructions. The use of a porous polyethylene implant is an ideal method for these patients because of its minimal morbidity and relatively low complication rate. Therapeutic, IV.

The Social Perception of Microtia and Auricular Reconstruction.

To examine the social perception of microtia and quantify the effect of reconstruction on socially perceived attributes. Parental consent was obtained for peri-reconstruction photographs in a patient with unilateral grade 3 microtia without an underlying craniofacial syndrome. With computer simulation, the normal, preoperative microtia, and postoperative reconstruction ear were isolated and blended into the oblique and lateral views of that volunteer's face to isolate ear morphology as a variable against a constant facial baseline. These photographs were embedded into Web-based surveys with visual analogue scales to capture social perception data and then were sourced to general population adults. Survey respondents totaled 631. On average, the face with the microtia ear was perceived to be less friendly (P = .015), less healthy (P = .022), and less successful (P = .005) than the same face with the "normal" ear. There were no statistically significant differences in socially perceived attributes between the face with the normal ear and the face with the reconstructed ear. This is the first study to examine the social perception consequences of microtia and microtia reconstruction in children. These findings may explain the significant psychosocial distress experienced by these patients by exploring the social perception of specific attributes perceived. Lastly, this study may better inform microtia patients and their physicians on the impact of auricular reconstruction on third party's perception of social attributes. N/A Laryngoscope, 131:195-200, 2021.

Autologous versus prosthetic nasal and auricular reconstruction – patient, professional and layperson perceptions

The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the perceptions of aesthetic outcome following the autologous and prosthetic reconstruction of nasal and auricular defects among patients, professionals (oral and maxillofacial surgeons and ear, nose and throat surgeons) and people unfamiliar with reconstructive surgery. The influence of anatomical subunits on the overall perception of nasal and auricular reconstructions was also determined. A total of 119 patients treated for nasal and auricular defects between 1997 and 2016, with a minimum follow-up period of 6 months, were selected, and photographs of 77 of these patients (65%) were presented in a digital survey and reviewed using a standardized questionnaire. No clinically relevant correlations were found between the age or gender of patients (as well as those of the respondents) and their scores. Prosthetic reconstructions of nasal and auricular defects were considered advantageous over autologous reconstructions in terms of the subjective aesthetic outcome in the view of the professionals, in particular oral and maxillofacial surgeons; however, the patients judged both techniques to be equally effective in terms of aesthetics. No anatomical subunits were found to have a significant impact on the overall match of a nasal or auricular reconstruction with the patient’s face.

3D hybrid printing platform for auricular cartilage reconstruction

As scaffolds approach dimensions that are of clinical relevance, mechanical integrity and distribution becomes an important factor to the overall success of the implant. Hydrogels often lack the structural integrity and mechanical properties for use in vivo or handling. The inclusion of a structural support during the printing process, referred to as hybrid printing, allows the implant to retain structure and protect cells during maturation without needing to compromise its biological performance. In this study, scaffolds for the purpose of auricular cartilage reconstruction were evaluated via a hybrid printing approach using methacrylated Gelatin (GelMA) and Hyaluronic acid (HAMA) as the cell-laden hydrogel, Polycaprolactone (PCL) as structural support and Lutrol F-127 as sacrificial material. Furthermore, printing parameters such as nozzle diameter, strand spacing and filament orientation scaffolds were investigated. Compression and bending tests showed that increasing nozzle sizes decrease the compressive modulus of printed scaffolds, with up to 82% decrease in modulus when comparing between a 400 μm and 200 μm sized nozzle tip at the same strand spacing. On the contrary, strand spacing and orientation influences mainly the bending modulus due to the greater porosity and changes in pore size area. Using a 400 μm sized nozzle, scaffolds fabricated have a measured compression and bending modulus in the range similar to the native cartilage. The viability and proliferation of human mesenchymal stem cells delivered within the bioink was not affected by the printing process. Using results obtained from mechanical testing, a scaffold with matching mechanical properties across six distinct regions mimicking the human auricular cartilage can be completed in one single print process. The use of PCL and GelMA-HAMA as structural support and cell-laden hydrogel respectively are an excellent combination to provide tailored mechanical integrity, while maintaining porosity and protection to cells during differentiation.

638 Auricular Splinting Following Severe Facial Burn Injury and Reconstruction

Abstract Introduction With a severe facial burn, injury often involves the ear(s) resulting in damage or loss which may require reconstruction. In consideration of the functional and psychological effect that loss of a defined ear lobe may entail, reconstruction is an important consideration for the burn survivor. Two cases described in detail with illustration will highlight an auricular contracture release; one with V-Y Advancement and the other with a transposition flap. Preservation of the auricular reconstruction is accomplished by implementing necessary splinting. The auricular splint fabricated was made from a combination of silicone and low-temperature thermoplastic material. A step-by-step process will illustrate the needed materials and techniques to fabricate a worthy splint in order to preserve what was surgically achieved. The splint maintains the space between the ear and head to properly position and prevent contracture through the healing and scar maturation process. It secured with a one-inch head band that is sublime enough to foster compliance with wear. The auricular splint material also serves as scar management with the many proven benefits of silicone. Methods Two case studies are reviewed with auricular contractures that required release and reconstruction. The auricular splints were fabricated to stabilize and preserve the reconstructed ear lobe. The wear schedule was intermittent during the day and overnight in combination with scar massage. The patients reported good compliance with wear and stability of splint position with overnight wear. Skin integrity was not compromised with overnight or intermittent wear. The splint fabrication process is reviewed and illustrated with a simplistic innovative end result that is user friendly. Results Surgical reconstruction was required following development of auricular contractures and partial loss. With post-operative bandage removal and wound closure, positioning was a necessary consideration to preserve post-surgical reconstruction. Conclusions In conclusion, the peri-auricular splint is fabricated with low temperature splinting material lined in silicone proved worthy for effective positioning and reported comfort with wear. Effective splinting is necessary for the preservation of surgical reconstruction and to prevent contracture from sabotaging surgical efforts. Applicability of Research to Practice Consideration of fabrication of silicone auricular splints to preserve the accomplishments of auricular surgical reconstruction.

Method of Reducing Thoracic Deformity in Auricular Reconstruction.

Autologous costal cartilage graft is an important material in orthopedic surgery. However, postoperative deformity of costal cartilage in donors is also a matter of concern. In our clinical experience, the preservation of the intercostal perichondrium, the replantation of part of the costal cartilage, and wearing an elastic chest strap for half a year are all ways to avoid thoracic deformity. Methods by which to avoid thoracic deformity is still the focus of our efforts.

Prediction of difficult laryngoscopy in school-aged patients with microtia.

Children with microtia may experience difficult laryngoscopy because the ear and the mandible develop from the first and second bronchial arches and clefts. In this prospective observational study, we enrolled 166 patients (6-14 years old) with microtia scheduled for auricular reconstruction with autologous costal cartilage framework. Airway of the subjects was assessed preoperatively with the Modified Mallampati classification, Thyromental distance, Interincisor gap, Forward protrusion of the mandible and Horizontal length of the mandible. Anesthesiologist performed the direct laryngoscopy. Difficult laryngoscopy was classified as grade III or IV based on the Cormack-Lehane classification. A total of 166 patients completed the study, including 158 (95%) isolated microtia patients and 8 (5%) hemifacial microsomia patients. The incidence of difficult laryngoscopy was 34/166 (20.5%) in all patients, 3/8 (37.5%) in hemifacial microsomia patients, 31/158 (19.6%) in isolated microtia patients (P=0.35). Multivariate logistic regression shows that Thyromental distance, Interincisor gap, Forward protrusion of the mandible are all independent predictors of difficult laryngoscopy. The sensitivity and specificity of each predictor were: Thyromental distance (82.35%, 89.39%), Interincisor gap (58.82%, 86.36%), and Forward protrusion (17.65%, 97.73%), respectively. The cutoff values of Thyromental distance and Interincisor gap for prediction of difficult laryngoscopy were 4.0 cm and 3.3 cm. The best combination of predictors was Thyromental distance/Interincisor gap/Forward protrusion of the mandible with a sensitivity of 94.12% and specificity of 86.36%. The combination of Thyromental distance, Interincisor gap, and Forward protrusion of the mandible is the optimal assessment to predict difficult laryngoscopy in school-aged patients with microtia.

Upper third auricular reconstruction surgery of cauliflower ear following auricular perichondritis: a case report

Cauliflower ear is the deformity result of necrosis of the cartilage and which is caused by several etiologies. One of the etiology was perichondritis and as the disease progress, abscess will developed and peel the perichondrial layer off the cartilage and resulting the necrosis and deformity of the auricle. This paper will discuss about male patient who developed cauliflower ear after had several episodes of perichondritis. This paper will further discuss about the reconstruction surgery for the deformity.