Ear reconstruction using a porous polyethylene framework and temporoparietal fascia flap

Abstract

Ear reconstruction is a difficult procedure requiring a framework and soft tissue covering. The traditional method uses a rib cartilage framework placed beneath scalp skin. This method has been used for 50 years despite inherent problems with both harvesting rib cartilage and using scalp for coverage. The authors describe a method using a porous polyethylene (PPE) framework covered by a large temporoparietal fascia (TFP) flap raised with the underlying subgaleal fascia (SGF). The entire implant is covered by the two-layered flap, which can be raised without any scalp incision. The skin grafts applied to the covered implant lie on the SGF. The trilaminar structure of the SGF allows the skin to move independently over the implant, resisting shear forces and reducing the probability of implant exposure. Ear reconstruction using the PPE framework was performed on 786 ears over an 18-year period. Initial complications were common. With improved implant design and complete coverage of the implant with both the TPF and SGF, exposure rate dropped to 7% with a 12-year follow-up. Implant fractures decreased to less than 3%. The PPE/TPF method allows earlier ear reconstruction in children with minimal scarring and discomfort. The reconstructed ear can closely mimic the shape and projection of the natural contralateral ear in fewer stages and with a shorter learning curve.