Radial composite chondrocutaneous flap for ear reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Plastic Surgery
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Moderate-sized cancers in the upper ear present reconstruction challenges.
• Standard wedge excisions can lead to significant defects and poor cosmetic outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel reconstructive technique for upper ear defects after cancer excision.
• To evaluate the efficacy of a composite flap and split-graft method for ear reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Wide excision of upper ear cancers, including cartilage, while preserving posterior skin.
• Reconstruction using a composite flap of skin and cartilage rotated from the middle ear.
• Closure of donor and recipient sites with post-auricular split-thickness skin grafts.

Main Results:

• The composite flap effectively supports the superior helix and reconstructs soft tissue defects.
• This technique avoids large wedge excisions and primary closure, minimizing defect size.
• Split grafts provide reliable coverage for the flap donor and inset areas.

Conclusions:

• This composite flap and split-graft technique offers a viable solution for reconstructing moderate upper ear defects.
• The method preserves ear structure and achieves satisfactory aesthetic results.
• It represents an effective alternative to traditional methods for upper ear cancer reconstruction.