Facial Plast Surg 2000; Volume 16(Number 1): 15-22
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-7322
Copyright © 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Microtia Reconstruction Using a Porous Polyethylene Framework

Thomas Romo III Michael S. FozoAnthony P. Sclafani
  • Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY
  • Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY
  • Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, NY.
  • Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY
  • Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY
  • Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

ABSTRACT

We describe our method for reconstructing microtic auricles using a porous polyethylene framework in two stages. The first stage of the procedure involves rotating a superficial temporoparietal fascial (TPF) flap over the framework. The inferior two-thirds of this framework is next inset into a local temporal skin pocket, while the superior one-third is covered with a full thickness skin graft from the contralateral postauricular sulcus. Lobular transposition is commenced in a second stage procedure at the three-month postoperative period. Hearing restoration surgery is encouraged at a later date in selected patients with unilateral microtia. Use of the porous polyethylene framework permits a more expedient, less invasive, and more reliable method for auricular reconstruction than does the traditional method that employs costal cartilage.