ABSTRACT
Sculpting a tridimensional autologous rib cartilage framework is essential to restore
a natural ear shape and becomes routine with preoperative training, but management
of the skin is the key to minimizing complications. Here the authors provide a classification
scheme to manage auricular skin: Type 1 is a Z-plasty with transposition of the lobule;
type 2 is a transfixion incision of the microtic ear; type 3 exposes the cartilage
remnants through a cutaneous incision. They also explain how to choose between the
three types, depending upon the auricular skin potential. With training and method,
results in ear reconstruction using autologous rib cartilage are excellent and reproducible.
KEYWORDS
Ear reconstruction - microtia - cartilage - autologous - classification
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Françoise FirminM.D.
34 avenue d'Eylau
75116, Paris, France
Email: francoisefirmin@damma.org
