Cartilage Splitting Without Stitches

Optimal Electromechanical Reshaping of the Auricular Ear and Long-term Outcomes in an In Vivo Rabbit Model

“…5–10 Although these techniques have been used commonly during the past 2 decades, many of them require the use of sutures and/or cartilage scoring to weaken the cartilage at desired areas of curvature. 9,11,12 In addition, these techniques have been difficult to master, with a steep learning curve and poor outcomes owing to suture extrusion, asymmetry, and scarring. Truly noninvasive approaches are limited, with laser-assisted cartilage reshaping 13–17 being the least invasive, but without widespread adoption owing to the need for specialized and costly lasers.…”

Application of Drill in Otoplasty

“…1 Incisional cartilage-cutting techniques have a risk of potential loss of the natural appearance of the auricle because of the sharp angles at the cartilage cuts. 2,3 Rasping, cross-hatching, or abrading of the auricular cartilage decreases the resistance of the cartilage, thus allowing the cartilage for medialization. 4,5 The cartilage-sparing methods have the advantage of avoiding the disruption of the structural integrity of the ear.…”

“…6 Cutting the auricular cartilage may result in irreversible and unpredictable distortion by wound contraction forces. 2,6 Additionally, incision at the cartilage may potentially change the natural appearance of the auricle because of sharp angles at the cartilage cuts.…”

Earfold: A New Technique for Correction of the Shape of the Antihelix

“…The original observations of Gibson and Davis have since given rise to a large number of modifications, all involving scoring, scratching, scraping, filing, rasping, abrading, or in some way damaging the anterior surface of the cartilage (Table ) . Other, more complex techniques are more akin to cartilage sculpting . As with posterior suture techniques, the most common complications reported are recurrences of the original prominence and the need for reoperation (Table ) .…”

“…[33][34][35][36] Other, more complex techniques are more akin to cartilage sculpting. 37,38 As with posterior suture techniques, the most common complications reported are recurrences of the original prominence and the need for reoperation (Table I). 13,16,[19][20][21] With only a few exceptions, the incidence of other complications is generally less than 5%; nevertheless, the extensive dissection required with such techniques increases the risk of skin necrosis and hematoma.…”