Background Although clinical trials have successfully applied microplates for the internal fixation of single or double isolated mandibular fractures, the use of microplate systems in comminuted mandibular fractures is not widely accepted. This study aimed to evaluate the use of microplates for internal fixation of comminuted mandible fractures and to discuss their applicability. Methods Fourteen patients with comminuted mandibular fractures (10 at a single region, 3 at 2 regions, and 1 at 4 regions) were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using 0.5- or 0.6-mm-thick titanium microplates and 1.0-, 1.2-, or 1.3-mm monocortical microscrews. Three-level fixation at the lower border, upper border (as interdental wiring), and middle of the mandible was performed. Maxillomandibular fixation was applied only when premature occlusal contact was observed after fracture fixation. Results During the follow-up period (3–55 months), all fractures showed favorable and complete bone healing. Six patients experienced minor complications, including minimal malocclusion (n = 5) and a localized infection (n = 1). Most of these complications were managed with conservative treatment. No major complications that required further orthodontic treatment or reoperation occurred. Conclusions These results suggest that 3-level fixation using microplates is appropriate for the reconstruction of comminuted mandibular fractures without bony defects. The small size and malleability of these devices facilitate accurate anatomical reduction for complete contact of the comminuted bony segments by multiple fixation. Furthermore, microplates allow for preservation of sufficient periosteal blood supply and restoration of premorbid occlusion (by occlusal self-adjustment) while providing sufficient stability.

Titanium micro-mesh implants are widely used in orbital wall reconstructions because they have several advantageous characteristics. However, the rough and irregular marginal spurs of the cut edges of the titanium mesh sheet impede the efficacious and minimally traumatic insertion of the implant, because these spurs may catch or hook the orbital soft tissue, skin, or conjunctiva during the insertion procedure. In order to prevent this problem, we developed an easy method of inserting a titanium micro-mesh, in which it is wrapped with the aseptic transparent plastic film that is used to pack surgical instruments or is attached to one side of the inner suture package. Fifty-four patients underwent orbital wall reconstruction using a transconjunctival or transcutaneous approach. The wrapped implant was easily inserted without catching or injuring the orbital soft tissue, skin, or conjunctiva. In most cases, the implant was inserted in one attempt. Postoperative computed tomographic scans showed excellent placement of the titanium micro-mesh and adequate anatomic reconstruction of the orbital walls. This wrapping insertion method may be useful for making the insertion of titanium micro-mesh implants in the reconstruction of orbital wall fractures easier and less traumatic.

INTRODUCTIONProminent ear is a relatively common deformity of the external ear, with an incidence of approximately 5% in Caucasians [1]. The main anatomical features of prominent ear are protrusion of the upper half of the helix with a wide conchoscaphal angle that results from failure of the antihelix to fold properly, in conjunction with a wide conchomastoid angle, deep conchal bowl, or absence of the helical roll [2]. Prominent ear may cause psychological stress, emotional trauma, and behavioral disorders, particularly in children [3]. The anatomical goal of prominent ear correction is to produce a smooth, round, and well-defined antihelical fold, a conchoscaphal angle of 90°, and conchal reduction or reduction of the conchomastoid angle [4]. A range of techniques have been developed to achieve these goals. Otoplastic techniques are divided into three broad categories: cartilage-cutting techniques, cartilage-sparing techniques, and incisionless techniques. Cartilage-sparing techniques have been Background In the surgical correction of prominent ear, a technique known as percutaneous adjustable closed otoplasty (PACO), which does not involve skin incision, undermining, or cartilage manipulation, has been developed to resolve problems including hematoma, infection, contour deformities, prolonged use of a compressive dressing, and hospitalization. We modified this procedure to make it more practical and accessible and to achieve better results. In this article, we introduce our modifications and demonstrate the clinical applicability of the modified procedure to patients with hardened auricular cartilage. Methods Two adult patients with prominent upper ears underwent closed otoplasty in an outpatient setting. Based on the anatomical features of the patients, three lines for traction sutures were designed on the scapha and counter scapha. Tab incisions were made at all predetermined puncture sites. Three antihelix-forming sutures (4-0 nylon) were put in place via percutaneous punctures. The sutures were performed from the counter scapha to the postauricular sulcus subcutaneously, using an 18-mm empty curved needle. The sutures were scraped over the mastoid bone such that they were anchored to the mastoid periosteum. After determining an adequate auriculocephalic distance, the sutures were tied at the postauricular sulcus. A slight overcorrection was made to compensate for post-surgical relapse. Results We observed no complications such as hematoma, infection, contour deformities, epithelial inclusion cyst formation, suture extrusion, or dimples on the scapha. At a long-term follow-up examination, the patients had well-defined antihelical folds and were satisfied with the aesthetic results of the procedure. Conclusions We propose our technique as a reliable treatment option for the correction of prominent ear.

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