Microvascular replantation of a traumatically amputated ear

We describe the replantation of a traumatically severed auricle using microvascular anastomosis to reestablish blood flow to the ear. Microvascular reattachment of the severed auricle occurred 10 hours after the trauma. Postoperatively, adjunctive measures, including anticoagulation and the use of medicinal leeches, were used to relieve venous congestion of the replanted auricle. The replanted auricle healed completely with 100% survival, resulting in an essentially normal-appearing external ear. In the management of a traumatically severed auricle, microvascular replantation should be considered as the intervention of first choice in selected cases. If the procedure is successful, the cosmetic results are excellent; if it is not successful, a number of other reconstructive techniques remain as options.