Modified Reconstruction Technique to Adapt Management of Severe Group IIB Tanzer Constricted Ear Deformity

Group IIB constricted ear is described as a deformity of helix, antihelix, and scapha (deficient upper third of ear). The length of the ear is markedly shortened, and the skin cover is insufficient to cover the cartilaginous framework after refashioning. The current study described certain modifications to the known autologous auricular reconstruction technique to adapt specific anatomical features of severe group IIB Tanzer constricted ear and reviewed the postoperative surgical outcomes and complications. It also evaluates the postoperative patient satisfaction.

A prospective study includes 20 patients who underwent modified autologous reconstruction using costal cartilage for unilateral severe grade IIB constricted ears in the period between October 2018 and November 2021. Mean follow-up period was 6 months. Satisfaction was recorded using a questionnaire form 4 months after second-stage surgery.

Patients reported excellent (n = 14) and good (n = 7) results. According to a four-point Likert scale, the average aesthetic outcome score was 3.8. No complications were recorded, except in one patient who shows postoperative collection. The helix, concha, and lobule were the most satisfying parts to patients. The least pleasing subunit to patients was the antihelix. All patients were satisfied with the elevation of the auricle. They reported symmetry in size, shape, and position in 14 of 20 (70%) patients.

Modified autogenous auricular reconstruction is useful in correcting severe group IIB Tanzer constricted ear deformities. Because it addresses all the anatomical features of this deformity, this technique is reproducible and reliable and has offered consistently effective results.