Soft-tissue reconstruction for atypical microtia malformations and trauma.

OBJECTIVE

To provide customized reconstructions of atypical microtia malformations and trauma via 1- or 2-stage procedures.

DESIGN

Case reports.

SETTING

Academic otolaryngology specialty hospital.

PATIENTS: Pediatric patients with rare and unique ear malformations.

INTERVENTIONS: Customized auricular reconstruction using contralateral postauricular donor grafts (skin and cartilage) as well as ipsilateral tissue (flaps and bone).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Postoperative results.

RESULTS

Surgical procedures were completed in 1 or 2 stages with minimal morbidity. No donor scars were visible, in contrast to traditional reconstructive methods. The completed auricular appearance was realistic.

CONCLUSION

Selected patients can benefit from soft-tissue reconstruction of the auricle that feels normal to the touch and lacks the morbidity and scarring of traditional reconstructive methods.