Post-traumatic ear reconstruction using postauricular fascial flap combined with expanded skin flap

Abstract

Introduction: Post-traumatic ear reconstruction still remains a great challenge for plastic surgeons. In this article, we present the technique of post-traumatic ear reconstruction using a postauricular fascial flap combined with an expanded skin flap.

Methods: From May 2007 to June 2009, 91 cases of post-traumatic ear defect were treated using a postauricular fascial flap combined with an expanded skin flap. Surgical procedure included postauricular-skin-flap expansion, removal of tissue expander, autogenous rib-cartilage-framework implantation, postauricular-fascial-flap lifting and split-thickness free-skin grafting.

Results: With a follow-up duration of 6 months to 1 year, the described technique provided a nice final result, and the reconstructed ears showed good match in size, shape, colour and location to the contralateral normal ear.

Conclusion: Post-traumatic ear reconstruction using a postauricular fascial flap combined with an expanded skin flap is an ideal approach with good final results.