Objective: To investigate the application and effectiveness of split-thickness scalp graft and temporoparietal fascia flap in the low hairline auricle reconstruction in microtia patients.
Methods: Between July 2010 and April 2015, 23 patients with low hairline microtia (23 ears) underwent low hairline auricle reconstruction. There were 16 males and 7 females with the mean age of 12 years (range, 6-34 years). The left ear was involved in 10 cases, and the right ear in 13 cases. There were 18 cases of lobule-type, 4 cases of concha-type, and 1 case of small concha-type. Referring to Nagata's two-stage auricular reconstruction method, the first stage operation included fabrication and grafting of autogenous costal cartilage framework; after 6 months, second stage operation of depilation and formation of cranioauricular sulcus was performed. The split-thickness scalp was taken from the part of the reconstructive ear above hairline. The hair follicles and subcutaneous tissue layers in hair area were cut off during operation. The area of depilation and auriculocephalic sulcus were covered with temporoparietal fascia flap. Then split-thickness skin was implanted on the surface of temporoparieta fascia flap.
Results: All operations were successfully completed. Healing of incision by first intention was obtained, without related complication. The patients were followed up 6-20 months (mean, 12 months). The reconstructed ear had satisfactory appearance and, had no hair growth.
Conclusion: The application of split-thickness scalp graft and temporoparietal fascia flap in low hairline auricle reconstruction in microtia patients can achieve satisfactory results.