Otoplasty: Rasps or Puncture Needles? A Clinical Trial.

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Otoplasty complications occur in up to 25% of cases, necessitating technique refinement.
• Stenström's anterior auricular cartilage scoring combined with Mustardé's technique is effective for antihelix deformities.
• Both scoring methods can utilize instruments like rasps or puncture needles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of puncture needles versus rasps for anterior cartilage scoring in otoplasty.
• To assess anatomical and aesthetic outcomes and review postoperative complications.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction and surgical parameters.

Main Methods:

• Forty-two patients with prominent ears were randomized to needle or rasp technique.
• Procedures were performed by first-year plastic surgery residents.
• Follow-up included clinical assessments and photographic analysis by blinded surgeons.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were found in overall results, symmetry, antihelix shape, or cartilage fracture between groups.
• Ninety-five percent of patients reported satisfaction with the aesthetic outcome.
• The needle technique demonstrated reduced postoperative edema and shorter surgical duration.

Conclusions:

• Anterior cartilage scoring with posterior mattress sutures is effective for antihelical fold correction using either rasps or needles.
• The needle technique provides comparable results with advantages in reduced edema and surgical time.
• This method is suitable for surgeons with varying experience levels and does not require specialized instruments.