Reconstruction of traumatic ear defect by retro-auricular expanded flap and cartilage graft / 中华整形外科杂志

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the therapeutic effect of retro-auricular expanded flap and cartilage graft for reconstruction of traumatic ear defect.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From Aug. 2008 to Aug. 2010, 10 cases of traumatic ear defects were treated with retro-auricular expanded flap and cartilage graft. The expanders (volume, 50 ml) were implanted subcutaneously at retro-auricular area on the first stage. Then the expansion began at 1 week after operation until the volume reached 60 ml. On the second stage, the ear defects were reconstructed with the expanded flaps, rib cartilage framework, as well as skin graft.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All the wounds healed primarily without any complication. The patients were followed up for 6 months to 2 years with satisfactory cosmetic results. Good symmetry was achieved.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>It is an effective and reliable method to reconstruct traumatic ear defect by retro-auricular expanded flap and cartilage graft.</p>