Auricular Framework Construction Using Cadaveric Costal Cartilage in Type III Microtia: Preliminary Results

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Non/minimally irradiated cadaveric costal cartilage (NCCC) is a common graft material for nasal reconstruction.
• Limited data exists on NCCC's application in total ear reconstruction, particularly for type III microtia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the preliminary outcomes of using NCCC for auricular framework construction in type III microtia patients.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of NCCC in total ear reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• A case series involving 7 ear reconstructions using NCCC from MTF Biologics.
• Patients with type III microtia underwent total ear reconstruction between August 2020 and October 2021.
• Postoperative evaluation included monitoring for surgical site infection, skin necrosis, cartilage exposure, warping, and resorption.

Main Results:

• Seven ears in 5 patients with type III microtia were reconstructed using NCCC.
• No surgical site infections or significant cartilage resorption were reported.
• Minor complications included skin necrosis and construct exposure, which were successfully managed. One case required explantation due to revision surgery complications.

Conclusions:

• NCCC presents a readily available alternative to alloplastic and autologous materials for auricular framework construction.
• Further long-term studies with larger cohorts are needed to confirm the efficacy of NCCC in ear reconstruction.