Precise regional reconstruction of segmental ear defect with postauricular skin flap / 中华整形外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective@#To explore the method and result of repairing segmental ear defect with postauricular skin flap according to different region.@*Methods@#25 partial ear defects were divided into 5 regions.The cases with defect in 1 and 2nd regions were treated by postauricular flap combined with ipsilateral conchal cartilage graft in one stage; Cases in the 3rd regions were repaired with the posterior pedicled flap combined with conchal or rib cartilage graft in two stages; According to the defect in 4th region, post-auricular skin flap was transplanted anteriorly to repair; The temporal fascial flap and skin graft were used for the 3 cases with post-operative cartilage exposure.@*Results@#All flaps survived with good shape except one case with partial epidermal necrosis and 3 cases deep color after the temporal fascial flap and skin graft. 9 cases that needed second operation.@*Conclusions@#The postauricular flap is a preferred alternative method in case periauricular skin is in fact, which yields closer tissue match, color, and texture. It is safe and effective for the correction of segmental ear defect with satisfied shape. The temporal fascial flap can be regarded as the last alternatives.