Split‐thickness skin grafting for reconstruction of auricular skin defects: a statistical analysis

Abstract

STSGs are a valid option for closing large auricular skin defects. Even large cutaneous tumors of the external ear do not necessarily infiltrate the cartilage. Thus, cartilage-sparing tumor resection with subsequent defect closure using a STSG is an excellent and quick method associated with high patient satisfaction.

The versatility of transposition flaps for repair of segmental auricular defects after skin cancer surgery

“…Full‐thickness skin grafts at the auricular level also bare a risk of graft contraction and subsequent auricular deformity. Split‐thickness skin grafts (STSGs) are a good alternative for auricular defects with cartilage preservation (especially in the antihelix area), avoiding potential pincushioning after flap reconstruction or postoperative contractions; a disadvantage is the secondary defect induced by STSG; nevertheless, harvesting the STSG in the hair‐bearing retroauricular area seems to lead to a fast healing and very good esthetic outcome 5 …”

Surgical management of skin cancer and trauma involving the middle third of the auricle

“…Reconstruction can be challenging for helical and non‐helical defects, since full‐thickness grafts are too thick for the non‐helical area and may not survive. Split‐thickness skin graft repair can be successful in such cases . In case of preserved cartilage, skin punch fenestration can be used prior to grafting to stimulate granulation tissue in areas without perichondrium .…”

Chirurgische Versorgung von Hautkrebs und Trauma im mittleren Drittel der Ohrmuschel

“…Sowohl bei Defekten der Helix als auch bei Defekten, bei denen die Helix nicht betroffen ist, kann die Rekonstruktion schwierig sein, da Vollhautlappen zu dick für nicht–helikale Bereiche sind und vielleicht nicht überleben. In solchen Fällen kann eine Spalthauttransplantation erfolgreich sein . Bei erhaltenem Knorpelgewebe kann vor der Transplantation eine Fensterung durch Hautstanzen durchgeführt werden, um Granulationsgewebe in Regionen ohne Perichondrium anzuregen .…”