Objective To investigate the cl inical outcome of a surgical strategy by soft tissue expansion in treating acquired auricular defect. Methods Between January 2007 and December 2009, 136 patients with acquired auricular defect were treated with a surgical strategy by putting autoallergic costal framework after soft tissue expansion. There were 93 males and 43 females, aged 8-60 years (median, 20 years). Defects were caused by burn in 82 cases, by trauma in 47 cases, and by bite in 7 cases. Defect involved in almost the whole auricle and earlobe in 50 patients, 2/3 superior part of auricle in 35 patients, 1/3 superior part of auricle in 31 patients, 1/3 middle part of auricle in 9 patients, and 1/3 inferior part of auricle and earlobe in 11 patients. Results All the flaps had good blood supply, skin grafts all survived, and all the wounds healed by first intention after operation. All patients were followed up 6-24 months with an average of 14 months. All reconstructive auricle survived with good color, soft texture, and normal sensory function; the appearance had no enlargement and attrition, and the grafted costal cartilage framework had no malacosis, absorption, and deformation. The reconstructed ear had the same position, size, shape, and oto-cranium angle as normal ear. The curative effect was good according to ZHUANG Hongxing’s evaluation standard of auricular reconstruction. Conclusion To reconstruct auricle by soft tissue expansion is an effective method. The position of putting expander and the number of expanders are different in different patients.
Objective To review the surgical treatment progress in repair and reconstruction of acquired auricle defects. Methods The related literature concerning the surgical methods and techniques for acquired auricle defects was reviewed and summarized. Results In order to attain an aesthetic ear with a clear structure, the location, size, and condition of surrounding skin must be taken into account when planning excision and repair. The application of tissue engineering and digital technology for acquired auricle defects can achieve a satisfactory effectiveness. Conclusion The surgical programs for acquired auricular defects have been constantly improved in recent years, and the emerging medical technologies also play a promoting role in the process, which providing a great deal of reference for obtaining structurally clear and stereoscopic auricle.