An implant-retained auricular prosthesis complicated by a modified temporal bone resection.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Plastic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Sebaceous carcinoma of the auricle can necessitate extensive surgical resection, including temporal bone resection and auriculectomy.
• Tumor extension into the temporal bone may compromise ideal osseous sites for craniofacial implant placement.
• Suboptimal implant positioning presents unique challenges for prosthetic rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the fabrication of an implant-retained auricular prosthesis.
• To address challenges associated with implants in suboptimal positions following oncologic resection.
• To detail prosthetic management for patients with complex auricular defects.

Main Methods:

• Modified temporal bone resection and total auriculectomy for sebaceous carcinoma removal.
• Delayed placement of craniofacial implants into residual temporal bone in superior and posterior positions.
• Fabrication of an implant-retained auricular prosthesis designed for suboptimal implant emergence through hair-bearing skin.

Main Results:

• Successful fabrication and fitting of an implant-retained auricular prosthesis.
• Optimization of prosthesis stability, retention, and esthetics despite challenging implant locations.
• Management of prosthetic space, hygiene access, and peri-implant tissue health in hair-bearing areas.

Conclusions:

• Implant-retained auricular prostheses can be successfully fabricated even with implants in suboptimal positions.
• Careful prosthetic design and management are crucial for optimizing function, esthetics, and tissue health.
• This approach offers a viable reconstructive option for patients with complex auricular defects after cancer surgery.