Allograftic and alloplastic auricular reconstruction

OBJECTIVE: The ear is considered a major asthetic unit that is not easily duplicated. Children born with microtia and patients who suffer from total auricular deformities present with one of the most challenging problems a facial plastic surgeon may encounter.

METHODS: Various modalities have been described in the literature. The aim of this paper is to describe the results obtained when the ear is reconstructed using different modalities (autogenous and non-autogenous) with special emphasis on the results of using polyethylene (Med pore) ear implants.

RESULTS: A retrospective chart review was conducted on 22 patients who had major ear reconstruction using bovine cartilage, autogenous costal cartilage and alloplastic polyethylene (Med Pore) material. The advantages, disadvantages and results of each modality are outline by case examples.

CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the best results are still obtained by autogenous ear reconstruction. The use of bovine cartilage is not recommended due to its high resorption and complication rate, which limits its use in the pediatric age group.