Ear Reconstruction

Abstract

AbstractMicrotia is a congenital deformity of the external ear, with a prevalence rate of approximately 1 in 10,000 live births worldwide. The auricle is a distinguishing feature of the face. Its deformity may have severe psycho-social implications on the affected children, affecting their self-confidence. Current reconstructive techniques for microtia mainly include the auricular prosthesis, implantation of alloplastic or an autologous rib cartilage framework. Alloplastic implant reproduces an excellent shape of the ear with no donor site morbidity, however its bio-integration is questionable and may make them prone for extrusion and infection. Sub-cutaneous implantation of autologous rib cartilage still remains the gold-stand treatment for microtia. However this technique has its surgical morbidities and skill demands, which makes it difficult to master. Translational research in the fields of tissue engineering for generation of bone and cartilage for ear reconstruction are emerging trends.