Aesthetic microtia reconstruction with Medpor

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• The auricle's complex 3D structure presents significant reconstructive challenges.
• Third-degree microtia, characterized by near-total tissue absence, is particularly difficult to reconstruct with lifelong durability.
• Traditional autogenous costal cartilage reconstruction demands high surgical skill and artistry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate high-density porous polyethylene (Medpor) as an alternative implant for auricular reconstruction in microtia patients.
• To compare the Medpor technique with traditional costal cartilage reconstruction regarding surgical complexity, outcomes, and aesthetics.
• To present Medpor as a standardized and effective option for auricular reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Utilized high-density porous polyethylene (Medpor) implants for auricular reconstruction.
• Enveloped Medpor implants in temporoparietal fascial flaps with full-thickness skin graft coverage.
• Compared outcomes with historical data from autogenous costal cartilage reconstructions.

Main Results:

• Medpor implants integrated with host tissues, showing stability and resistance to infection.
• The Medpor technique resulted in durable and aesthetically gratifying reconstructions.
• This method reduced surgical time and morbidity compared to traditional techniques.

Conclusions:

• High-density porous polyethylene (Medpor) provides a viable, standardized, and aesthetically superior alternative for auricular reconstruction in microtia.
• The Medpor technique simplifies the reconstructive process, offering consistent results and reduced patient morbidity.
• This alloplastic implant approach is a significant advancement for reconstructive surgery of the auricle.