Establishment of a bone-anchored auricular prosthesis (BAAP) program.

OBJECTIVE

Bone-anchored auricular prostheses (BAAPs) are indicated for treatment of congenital or acquired microtia in children. This paper reports on our experience in establishing a BAAP program, including treatment algorithms, protocols and a discussion of the methodology, complications and patient satisfaction.

METHODS

Eleven consecutive children using BAAPs were reviewed. Outcome measures include patient selection criteria, long-term stability of the BAAP, skin reactions around the site, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

A patient selection program was developed and implemented, followed by a management protocol for surgery and follow-up. All children (100%) achieved osseointegration, with only one site revision necessary. A variable degree of skin irritation was noted in just over one third (39%) of cases. All children were satisfied with their prosthesis.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of BAAPs in a pediatric population is a safe and viable method to correct disfiguring microtia. The final result is generally very acceptable to the child.