The bone-anchored auricular episthesis

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Plastic Surgery
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Total pinna ablation results in significant cosmetic defects.
• Traditional plastic surgery for reconstruction often yields unsatisfactory outcomes.
• Episthesis (prosthetic ear) is a preferred alternative, but attachment remains a challenge.

Observation:

• A case report details a new episthesis fixation system.
• Titanium screws were implanted into the temporal bone with minimal tissue disruption.
• Skin-penetrating titanium abutments and a gold bridge were subsequently attached.

Findings:

• The new method utilizes a secure titanium implant system for episthesis.
• A silicon rubber episthesis was attached via a snap fastener to the gold bridge.
• This technique builds upon extensive clinical experience with titanium implants penetrating skin and mucous membranes.

Implications:

• This approach offers a more reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for prosthetic ear attachment.
• It addresses a significant limitation in current episthesis rehabilitation.
• The method holds potential for improving patient quality of life after pinna loss.