Outcomes and Complications of the Mustardé Otoplasty: A “Good–Fast–Cheap” Technique for the Prominent Ear Deformity

BACKGROUND: The Mustardé otoplasty is a commonly used procedure for the correction of the prominent ear deformity. Complication rates related to suture extrusion and long-term outcomes are variable in the literature. The study’s purpose was to examine the efficacy and safety of the Mustardé otoplasty and its resource utilization, using an “iron triangle” methodology incorporating quality, time, and cost. METHODS: Retrospective data were collected on patients under 18 years who underwent primary Mustardé otoplasty between 2009 and 2018. Patient demographics, intraoperative details, complications, follow-up, and satisfaction were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: There were 119 Mustardé otoplasties performed on 68 patients, with a median follow-up of 72 weeks (24–476 weeks). In total, 51 of the 68 patients underwent bilateral procedures. The median operative time was 95 minutes (31–133 minutes), translating to a facility case cost of $2046. A total of 24 complications were reported in 17 patients. Minor complications included the following: suture extrusion (n = 20), hematoma (n = 1), and suture abscess (n = 1). Major complications included reoperation (n = 2). The series had a revision rate of 1.7% (n = 2). No additional procedures were documented at other hospitals in the province. The majority (97%) of ear outcomes demonstrated both patient and surgeon satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: The Mustardé otoplasty demonstrated a high efficacy in the correction of the prominent ear, with low reoperation rates and high patient and surgeon satisfaction. The procedure demonstrated intriguing results in resource utilization, with brief operative times, a “knife and fork” supply chain, and minimal overall case costs. This technique qualifies as a good, fast, and cheap outpatient otoplasty option.