Ear replantation

Most trauma to the ear is minimal and can heal with excellent results if meticulous repair is performed immediately after the accident. Amputation of the ear, on the other hand, is a very serious problem and can lead to severe deformity. Many reattachment and reconstruction techniques are described; however, reattachment of the severed ear continues to be a major challenge that can lead to severe deformity. To date, only a few successful cases of microvascular ear replantation have been reported. Bone-anchored prosthesis or plastic reconstruction may be recommended if the patient refuses surgery, in patients with multiple health problems, or in the case of a reconstructive attempt that has failed and the patient prefers to wear a prosthesis for the rest of his or her life.