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Preauricular pull through flap for reconstruction of the auricle
Manfred Schmidt1, Maximilian Zaussinger1, Dominik Duscher2
1Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Kepler University Hospital - Medcampus 3, Krankenhausstrasse 9, 4020 Linz, Austria; Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University, Altenberger Straße 69, 4040 Linz, Austria.
Summary
This study introduces a new surgical technique using a preauricular pull-through flap for auricular reconstruction after tumor removal. The method offers a reliable and effective solution for complex antihelix defects.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Otolaryngology
- Dermatologic Surgery
Background:
- Reconstruction of the antihelix crus after tumor resection presents significant surgical challenges.
- Currently, no universally ideal method exists for this specific auricular defect.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel surgical technique for reconstructing the crus of the antihelix.
- To evaluate the efficacy and esthetic outcomes of this new method.
Main Methods:
- A pedicled flap harvested from preauricular excess skin was utilized.
- The flap was tunneled through the helix to the anterior auricular surface for reconstruction.
- The technique was applied to three patients with skin malignancies requiring antihelix reconstruction.
Main Results:
- The preauricular pull-through flap technique was successfully applied in all three patients.
- All patients experienced uneventful postoperative courses with excellent esthetic results.
- Initial flap edema was noted in two cases but resolved spontaneously.
Conclusions:
- The preauricular pull-through flap is a versatile, straightforward, and reliable method for auricular reconstruction.
- This technique effectively addresses defects of the superior and inferior crus of the antihelix and triangular fossa.
- Utilizing natural preauricular skin excess simplifies the reconstruction process.
