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.
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, USA.
Tuan V
TV
Pham
Stephen V
SV
Early
Stephen S
SS
Park
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