Application of auricular reconstruction in repair of whole auricle defect and deformity

Objective To explore the methods, effects and operating key points of repair and reconstruction surgeries for whole auricle defectand deformity.

Methods Thirty-five patients with congenital auricular malformation and acquired whole auricular defect from January 2019 to December 2020 were selected as study objects, and surgical methods for these patients and the aesthetic effects of reconstructed ears after operation were analyzed.

Results All the incisions of 35 patients healed in the first stage; the postoperative follow up results showed that the shape of reconstructed ear was stable, the structure was clear, the appearance was lifelike, the position was symmetrical with the ear in healthy side; the structures such as auricular concha cavity, triangular fossa and cranial auricular angle were well displayed, and the patients were satisfied with the shape of the reconstructed ear.

Conclusion In the reconstruction of deformity with whole auricle defect, autologous costal cartilage transplantation combined with skin expansion or superficial temporal fascia flap can achieve good effect. In clinic, the skin condition of mastoid region, the position of hairline and the conditions of costal cartilage donor area should be fully evaluated, and the most appropriate surgical method should be closed to obtain the best effect of auricular reconstruction.