A new method of reconstruction in microtia, with emphasis on conchal creation.
A new method for reconstruction in microtia is described. The auricle is divided into two components--conchal and helical. The conchal component includes the conchal cavity, antihelix, superior and inferior antihelical crura, and tragus, while the helical component incudes the helix and scapha. In a departure from ordinary methods, the conchal part is reconstructed first and the helical part second. Carving and fabricating costal cartilages, usage of soft tissue flaps, and creation of the tragus are important. Especially important in this technique is conchal restoration. The advantages and disadvantages of the method are also discussed. The author recommends starting the procedure when the patient is about 6, as western surgeons normally do.
D004425:Ear Cartilage / Q000637:transplantation; D004431:Ear, External / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D013518:Surgery, Plastic; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D014182:Transplantation, Autologous