Emergency treatment of large amputated ear defect with auricular cartilage replantation / 中华整形外科杂志

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the emergency treatment for large amputated ear defect.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From Feb. 2010 to Oct. 2013, 5 cases with large unilateral amputated ear defects were treated. The amputated auricular cartilage was replanted subcutaneously in mastoid area at the first stage. Cranioauricular sulcus was reconstructed and skin grafting was performed at the second stage.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All cases were followed up for 3-6 months with satisfactory result. The reconstructed helix, scapha and cavity of auricular concha had similar color and elasticity as the ear at healthy side. Scar at donor sites, such as inguinal region and armpit, was inconspicuous.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The method of auricular cartilage replantation is an effective way for emergency treatment of large amputated auricular defect with less morbidity at donor site.</p>