Injury Patterns and Reconstruction in Acquired Ear Deformities

Reconstruction following ear trauma presents a heterogeneous group of abnormalities with significantly more variation in presentation. The aim of the study was to analyze our experience and expound some broad principles of auricular reconstruction in acquired ear deformities. A total of 117 patients with human, animal bites and revision otoplasty presented to our clinic. Demographic data were extracted from medical records and photographs. Management options included no reconstruction, external silicone prosthesis, or autologous reconstruction. Fifty percent of patients with human bite injuries and 62% with animal bite injuries opted for autologous ear reconstruction. A flap with either a costal cartilage framework (37/39; 95%) or conchal cartilage (2/39; 5%) was used. In revision otoplasty group, 12% required autologous reconstruction either with conchal or costal cartilage. We discuss our indications, techniques, complications, and predictable pattern of injuries in human bites. Autologous auricular reconstruction of traumatic injuries is a safe procedure associated with aesthetically pleasing outcome and improved quality of life despite physical and psychosocial comorbidities. Elderly patients are more likely to opt for prosthetic camouflage.