Reconstruction of the partially ablated auricle

The auricle is unique in its structure and its reconstruction has remained a challenge for a long time. Much progress has been made in this field in recent years, especially with regard to congenitally malformed ears. In otolaryngological practice total or partial ablation of the auricle is encountered either following surgery for tumours or as a result of trauma. Following total amputation of the pinna the defect can be concealed by a prosthesis and although surgical replacement of the complete auricle is possible it is seldom necessary. Partially ablated auricles on the other hand are difficult to conceal. In a cosmetically conscious society like ours this must generate some psychological stress. In this article a simple versatile technique of reconstruction of partial defects as commonly seen in otolaryngological practice is presented. Other methods are reviewed.