[Research progress of clinical therapy for concha-type microtia].

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the current progress of clinical therapy for concha-type microtia.

METHODS

The domestic and overseas literature about the treatment of concha-type microtia was reviewed and the contents of operative timing, operation selection, and complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

The unified therapeutic schedule of the concha-type microtia has not yet been determined due to its complicated various therapeutic methods and unknown etiology. The operation methods commonly used in clinic are partial ear reconstruction with autologous costal cartilage framework and free composite tissue transplantation. The timing of the partial ear reconstruction depends on the development of costal cartilage and children's psychological healthy. The timing of free composite tissue transplantation depends on the severity. It is recommended to perform the operation at about 10 years old for mild patients. For moderate patients, ear cartilage stretching should be performed at 1-2 years old and free composite tissue transplantation would be performed at about 10 years old. The complications of partial ear reconstruction with autologous costal cartilage framework for concha-type microtia mainly include framework exposure, deformation, infection, cartilage absorption, and skin necrosis. The complications of free composite tissue transplantation have not been reported.

CONCLUSION

Etiology and elaborated classifications with individualized treatment are the future research directions.