Total reconstruction of the auricle after traumatic amputation.

Abstract

We report a technique of auricular replantation used in a case of traumatic amputation. The principal difficulties encountered in this type of replantation are mentioned, and ways of avoiding them are suggested. All the skin of the ear was removed except for that of the anterior surface of the conch. At this site, the cartilage received small, multiple perforations to allow for nutrition of the corresponding skin. The remainder of the auricular cartilage was covered by a skin flap undermined from the mastoid region. Three months later, the retro-auricular region was freed and covered with a total skin graft taken from the right supraclavicular region. On the basis of the satisfactory results obtained, we discuss the intention and the technical details of the method and possible contraindications.