Ear reconstruction after rupture of postauricular expanded flap / 中华整形外科杂志

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To summarize the principles of ear reconstruction after rupture of postauricular expanded flap.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The rupture of the postauricular expanded flap was graded as I-IV degree. For flap rupture of I and II degree, the ear reconstruction was performed immediately with autogenous cartilage framework. For flap rupture of III degree, topical and systemic treatment should be done to relieve the redness and swelling. Then the ear reconstruction was performed. For flap rupture of IV degree, the expanded postauricular flap was smoothened. Ear reconstruction was performed 3 months later.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>There were 67 cases with flap rupture, including 43 cases as I and II degree, 17 cases as III degree and 7 cases as IV degree. Ear reconstruction with autogenous cartilage framework was performed in 43 cases, with Medpor framework in 17 cases. Flap smoothing and secondary ear reconstruction with autogenous cartilage framework was performed in 7 cases. The results were satisfactory with complications in 4 cases (7%), which resolved after treatment. Primary healing was achieved in all the patients.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Good result could be achieved in ear reconstruction, even after flap rupture. Proper treatment should be adopted according to the rupture degree.</p>