Partial reconstruction of the external ear after a trauma-simple and efficient techniques

The growing number of ear trauma cases has brought about the need for simple and efficient solutions. AIM: To be able to rebuild an ear partially injured by trauma, even in a small hospital setting. Many techniques can be used; however, the solution can be the use of cutaneous or chondrocutaneous flaps. METHODS: To reconstruct the ear upper or middle thirds we used a mastoid cutaneous flap with or without a cartilage graft or a chondrocutaneous flap - chosen considering the size of the defect and the need for a cartilage graft. RESULTS: The patients were able to wear glasses and were pleased with the results. Most of the patients ended up having a good helix and cartilaginous contour. Some had hypertrophic scars on the grafted areas and two required a second procedure. CONCLUSION: Mastoid cutaneous flaps or local chondrocutaneous flaps can represent a good solution for partial ear loss after trauma. Most of the patients had very high expectations concerning the procedure. This poses a major technical challenge for the surgeon and requires prior discussion with the patients regarding the true possibilities of outcome.