A Comparative Finite Element Analysis of Two Surgical Methods for Cryptotia

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Anatomy
• Biomechanical Engineering

Background:

• Cryptotia is an auricular abnormality where the ear's upper and posterior areas are buried under temporal skin.
• Surgical treatments include skin grafts, local flaps, and sometimes cartilage/muscle modification for complex cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the Square flap and Cat's Ear flap methods for treating cryptotia.
• To provide guidance for surgeons in selecting the most appropriate surgical procedure based on individual patient needs.

Main Methods:

• Two typical cryptotia cases were treated using either the Square flap or the Cat's Ear flap method.
• Finite element analysis was conducted using ADINA v8.9 software with a hyperelastic skin model.

Main Results:

• The Square flap method resulted in significant dog-ears and a deep valley.
• The Cat's Ear flap method also created a large dog-ear due to flap rotation and advancement.

Conclusions:

• The Cat's Ear flap method is recommended for cryptotia patients with a shallow posterior auricular groove.
• The Square flap method is suitable for other cases, effectively addressing the buried helix with less excision.