Ten-year experience in microtia reconstruction using tissue expander and autogenous cartilage.

OBJECTIVE: Ear reconstruction is a complex multi-staged procedure in otology. A variety of surgical strategies have been devised for the reconstruction. In this paper, we present our 10-year experience in microtia reconstruction using tissue expander and autogenous cartilage in microtia reconstruction.

METHODS: The process of our method is divided into three stages. In the first stage, the kidney-shape tissue expander was implanted subcutaneously. With 1 month of inflation, the tissue expander offered the non-hairbearing and well-vascularized skin. In the second stage, we improved the technique of cartilage fabrication and used an expanded two-flap envelope to erect framework. In the third stage, the tragus and concha were reconstructed.

RESULTS: 3332 patients have undergone ear reconstruction using tissue expander and autogenous cartilage from 1996 to 2006. The follow-up study showed the satisfactory contour of the reconstructed ears.

CONCLUSIONS: Techniques using tissue expander and autogenous cartilage in microtia reconstruction was easily done and the complications were rare.