Advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the left auricle: a radical but effective surgical approach

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer. Although it has a good prognosis, cSCC of the ear is associated with a poorer outcome. Reconstruction following total ear amputation because of a cSCC of the ear can be challenging, especially in elderly patients. Currently, to the best of our knowledge, the number of published articles discussing reconstruction modalities following total ear amputation is relatively limited. A 95-year-old patient presented with an advanced form of cSCC of the left ear. Total ear amputation and defect reconstruction using a large preauricular transposition flap was performed. Because the patient was blind, there was no need to save the helix fold or tragus as an eyewear holder. Postoperative flap viability was good and, after complete site healing, the patient and his family were satisfied with its aesthetic appearance. Histopathological analysis showed poorly differentiated cSCC penetrating the surface of the auricular cartilage, with wide clear surgical margins. Total ear amputation in cases of advanced cutaneous carcinomas is very rare and lacks reconstructive modalities. In this patient, it provided him with tumor-free status as well as a satisfactory aesthetic appearance with good quality of life.