Surgery of the auricle.
Auricular reconstruction is a unique area of facial plastic surgery where a wide array of reconstructive options often must be considered. The external ear is unique in its aesthetic role where the normal auricle often goes unnoticed; yet even a small irregularity can stand out and become conspicuous. The reconstruction of large or total auricular defects is a combination of science and art. Two forms of auricular reconstruction are discussed: (1) those for a congenitally abnormal shape but no acquired tissue deficiency, that is, otoplasty, and (2) repairs requiring a reconstruction of discrete loss of tissue. A general algorithm is presented that can assist with flap selection and covers the techniques for grafts, framework repair, local and pedicled flaps, temporoparietal facial flaps, and auricular prostheses.
Pham
Tuan V
TV
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, USA.
Early
Stephen V
SV
Park
Stephen S
SS
D002356:Cartilage / Q000637:transplantation; D004426:Ear Deformities, Acquired / Q000601:surgery*; D004431:Ear, External / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000196:embryology / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D005205:Fascia / Q000637:transplantation; D006801:Humans; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D019919:Prosthesis Implantation; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D016038:Skin Transplantation; D013524:Surgical Flaps