title: Single-stage autologous ear reconstruction for microtia.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The authors have been using the Nagata technique since 2002. In this review of 100 consecutive ear reconstructions, the authors present technique modifications that have evolved over this period that have contributed to improved auricular contour and that now allow for auricular reconstruction in a single stage.
  
  
  METHODS
  This study is a retrospective review of a prospectively acquired database. The series is restricted to primary reconstructions performed for congenital microtia. Photographs of 10 consecutive patients are presented to demonstrate the results of the technique. Surgical complication rates are discussed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  One hundred ear reconstructions were performed in 96 patients. There were 75 primary cases of congenital microtia. Twenty-four ears underwent a two-stage reconstruction, and 51 ears were reconstructed with a Nagata stage I procedure or a single-stage reconstruction. There was a gradual shift in technique, with a trend to perform fewer Nagata stage II outsetting procedures and more single-stage reconstructions. In patients who underwent an ear reconstruction in two stages, the surgical complication rate was 22 percent. In the last 40 consecutive ear reconstructions since abandoning the two-stage approach, the surgical complication rate is now 15 percent.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A modification of Nagata's technique of autologous ear reconstruction for microtia is described. Modifications of the three-dimensional framework address the contour of the inferior crus and control tragal projection and position. Inclusion of a projection block and recruitment of retroauricular skin allow for symmetric projection of the ear in a single stage.
  
  
  METHODS
  Therapeutic, IV.
authors.affiliation: Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and St. Louis, Mo. From the Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, the Division of Plastic Surgery, St. Joseph's Health Centre; and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis Children's Hospital.
authors.forename: Leila
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Kasrai
authors.forename: Alison K
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Snyder-Warwick
authors.forename: David M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Fisher
mesh_terms: D002356:Cartilage / Q000637:transplantation*; D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000601:surgery*; D065817:Congenital Microtia; D004423:Ear / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery; D004431:Ear, External / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012272:Ribs / Q000637:transplantation*; D013524:Surgical Flaps