Tunneled Flaps: An Ingenious Reconstructive Option for Anterior Auricle Defects

BACKGROUND: The anterior surface of the auricle is especially susceptible to a variety of traumatic insults and cutaneous malignancies. However, given the unique anatomy of this structure and the lack of local tissue available, the reconstruction of these defects is still a challenge. Despite of their positive outcomes, tunneled flaps have not been thoroughly explored in the literature. OBJECTIVES: To review the clinical utility of tunneled flaps in reconstructing anterior auricle defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A review of the literature on surgical reconstruction of the anterior auricle surface was performed in PubMed, with specific reference to tunneled flaps. CONCLUSIONS: When designed and executed properly, tunneled flaps offer unrivalled opportunities to reconstruct anterior auricle defects, with maximal preservation of the symmetry.