title: A novel lobule rotation flap for the reconstruction of middle third auricular defects.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  There are numerous techniques for the reconstruction of cutaneous defects of the pinna. Many of these distort the auricle, and several are challenging and time-consuming to perform.
  
  
  METHODS
  An illustrative case is presented to demonstrate a novel lobule rotational flap, which can be used to cover cutaneous defects of the middle third of the pinna.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Postoperative photography illustrates that this simple one-stage technique causes minimal anatomical distortion and allows the final scar to be concealed within the inner helical rim.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Small local flaps can be raised from the lobule to cover challenging defects of the middle third of the pinna. In selected patients, with abundant lobular tissue, this technique can be as effective as more complex reconstructive options.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Wexham Park Hospital, Slough, UK.
authors.forename: Indraneil
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Basu
authors.forename: Benjamin
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Way
authors.forename: Isam
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Al-Basri
mesh_terms: D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002280:Basal Cell Carcinoma / Q000601:surgery*; D054644:Ear Auricle / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps