Complications after Total Porous Implant Ear Reconstruction and Their Management

Microtia reconstruction using porous polyethylene implants has become an established alternative to autologous costal cartilage techniques. Few surgeons are trained in porous implant ear reconstruction (PIER), leading to a relative lack of understanding of the nuances of this type of surgery. The risks of exposure, infection, and fracture of the implant have further discouraged surgeons from performing PIERs. Meticulous technique and proper management of complications are critical to the success of surgeries involving porous implants (Medpor, Su-Por). There are a limited number of articles in the literature that report the management of complications of porous implant auricular reconstruction. The purpose of this work is to present a comprehensive review of the management of complications with PIER based on over 10 years of experience with this surgical technique.