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Reconstruction following traumatic partial amputation of the ear
Robert A Pearl1, Walid Sabbagh
1London, United Kingdom From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Royal Free Hospital.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|February 3, 2011
Summary
Autologous costal cartilage ear reconstruction effectively restores form after traumatic amputation. This method yields high-quality results, becoming a preferred treatment for complex ear injuries.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Traumatic external ear amputation presents significant reconstructive challenges.
- Autologous costal cartilage is a viable graft material for ear reconstruction.
- Established techniques provide a framework for successful auricular reconstruction.
Observation:
- Fifty partial ear reconstructions were performed using autologous costal cartilage over four years.
- Common causes of amputation included bite injuries, accidents, burns, and torture.
- A two-stage reconstruction technique, incorporating tissue expansion or fascial flaps when necessary, was employed.
Findings:
- High success rates (47/50 patients) were achieved with autologous costal cartilage ear reconstruction.
- Minor complications included superficial skin necrosis and one wound infection, both managed conservatively or surgically.
- The technique consistently produced high-quality auricular reconstructions.
Implications:
- Autologous costal cartilage reconstruction is a reliable and effective treatment for traumatic ear amputation.
- This approach offers a consistent method for achieving aesthetically pleasing and functional ear restoration.
- Specialized centers with high case volumes can optimize outcomes for complex auricular reconstruction.
