BackgroundThe complexity of the constricted ear's shape renders a uniform surgical method unattainable, thus posing an ongoing challenge in its correction. The Tanzer’s group IIB constricted ear is characterized by a prominent downward folding, an underdeveloped antihelix, and the absence of sacpha. The present study utilized a V-Y advancement flap combined with concha cartilage for the repair of Tanzer’s group IIB constricted ear. MethodFrom September 2016 to September 2022, a total of 16 patients diagnosed with type IIB ear constriction were enrolled in this retrospective study. The correction procedure for constricted ear involved the utilization of a V-Y advancement flap combined with concha cartilage graft. The auricle shape data of the patients, as well as their VAS satisfaction score and auricle aesthetic score, were examined both preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively. ResultThe mean duration of follow-up in this study was 18 months. The postoperative measurements of ear length, ear width, bilateral differences in ear length, and bilateral differences in ear width exhibited significant improvement compared to preoperative values. The mean preoperative AOS score was 1.12±0.34, while the mean postoperative AOS score increased to 3.81±0.40. The preoperative VAS satisfaction score was recorded as 2.31±0.70, while the postoperative VAS score significantly increased to 8.00±0.89. The follow-up period did not present any cases of flap necrosis, hematoma, infection, or wound dehiscence. ConclusionThe combination of V-Y advancement flap and concha cartilage transplantation for the correction of Tanzer’s group IIB constricted ear can achieve a natural and aesthetically pleasing auricle shape, resulting in high patient satisfaction.
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