title: Prosthetic reconstruction of the auricle: indications, techniques, and results.
abstract: Extensive defects of the ear require satisfactory cosmetic reconstruction to enable the patient to achieve full social integration. Although surgical procedures are the gold standard for reconstruction of the ear, in some cases they cannot be performed because of extended scars, threatening tumor, or congenital tissue abnormalities. Prosthetic reconstruction of the auricle is an established and reliable alternative technique to autologous surgical reconstructions. Since studies performed by Brånemark, osseointegrated implants have been widely used to provide a reliable and stable anchorage for a prosthesis (prosthesis anchored to bone). To allow good osseointegration of the titanium screw implants, two stages are necessary. After careful preparation for the surgical procedure (local and general examination, computed tomography scan, skin preparation), screws are implanted into bone, which are then covered by a skin flap. During the second stage, the skin is incised, and penetrating fixtures are attached to the screw implants, which allow fixation of the prosthesis. This procedure is reliable and reproducible, with good to excellent results and stability over time.
authors.affiliation: Service de Stomatologie, Implantologie, Chirurgie Maxillo-Faciale, Plastique et Reconstructrice, CHU de Caen, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Caen, France.
authors.forename: Jean-Philippe
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Giot
authors.forename: Daniel
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Labbé
authors.forename: Eric
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Soubeyrand
authors.forename: Régine
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Pacini
authors.forename: Marie-Reine
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Guillou-Jamard
authors.forename: Jean-François
authors.initials: JF
authors.lastname: Compère
authors.forename: Hervé
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Bénateau
keywords: Prosthesis; ear; osseointegration; plastic surgery