Repositioning an Implant-retained Auricular Prosthesis using a Custom Acrylic Base: A Case Report

Abstract

Prosthetic rehabilitation offers an alternative to surgical procedures for repositioning implant-retained auricular prosthesis. This report illustrates a prosthetic rehabilitation of a 15-year- old male with a unilateral microtia who presented with an unfavorable implant-retained left auricular prosthesis. The implants placed seven years ago were drifted posterosuperior away from the ideal ear canal position. The fabrication of a new prosthesis on the existing bar-clip attachment using a custom acrylic base was planned to correct the location. A skin-colour perforated custom acrylic base was fabricated and designed to extend anteriorly, therefore, shifting the prosthesis forwards into a more natural location. The custom base was able to relocate the prosthesis’ position without compromising its retention whilst engaging the existing implant attachment. This in turn enhanced prosthesis acceptability and improved the patient’s confidence. The custom acrylic base serves as a viable option to reposition the prosthesis influenced by age related growth and development.