Correction of microtia with constriction features using a superficial temporal fascial flap combined with a rib cartilage graft

Abstract

Background Microtia with constricted features is characterized by a short helical length of variable severity, upper antihelical or scaphal deficiency, and a downfolded upper ear. No consensus has been reached regarding the most appropriate surgical method for this condition. In this study, we aimed to introduce a simple and safe surgical method for the correction or reconstruction of upper helix ear deformities.Methods Between February 2011 and June 2014, eight patients with microtia with constricted upper helix ear deformity underwent reconstruction of the ear deformity. The upper ear helical framework was constructed by carving and curving the eighth rib cartilage harvested from the ipsilateral chest wall, covering this cartilage with a superficial temporal fascial flap, and adjusting the skin graft to align with the ear contour. To evaluate their satisfaction, patients were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding ear shape, symmetry, position, color, and overall outcome scored on a 5-point scale at 12 months postoperatively.Results None of the patients experienced severe complications in the reconstructed ear. The preoperative and postoperative vertical ear length ratios were 0.88 and 1.02, respectively. And the mean patient satisfaction scores for shape, symmetry, position, color, and overall outcome were 4.2, 4.5, 4.7, 4.4, and 4.6 out of 5 points, respectively. All patients expressed a high level of satisfaction at 12 months postoperatively.Conclusions Our technique provides a good alternative method for the reconstruction of moderate constricted upper helix ear deformities in patients who meet the surgical indications with satisfactory outcomes and few complications.

Efficacy of Classic Ear Molding for Neonatal Ear Deformity: Case Series and Literature Review

“…Patients with congenital ear deformities tend to suffer psychological distress manifesting as anxiety, low self-esteem, and behavioral problems [ 12 ]. Traditionally, auricular deformities have been corrected surgically at 6 years of age [ 18 ]. Recently, nonsurgical management by ear molding has emerged as a favorable approach for newborn auricular deformities.…”

Cadaveric study of deep temporal fascia for autologous rhinoplasty grafts: Dimensions of the temporal compartment in Asians

“…Harvesting the DTF without a sufficient anatomical understanding often causes postoperative complications such as bleeding, facial nerve paralysis, and temporal hollowness [15][16][17][18][19]. Previous studies reported the LTC contained all of the "atrisk" anatomical structures of the temporal area [12,15,20].…”

Reconstructive Techniques in Pediatric Congenital Microtia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

“…Measured dimensions were compared between the reconstructed and normal ear by a few studies, who all reported a difference of less than 10% in each dimension. 35,47,60,84 Audiometrically measured hearing outcomes were reported by three studies, all with improvements of greater than 20 dB. 35,43,56…”

“…Several studies in our review devised and explained their own scoring systems, which in some instances even included the use of multiple independent evaluators. 29,40,47,53,66,88 However, none of these scoring systems were This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.…”