A One Stage Reconstruction of Defective Type Cleft Earlobe: Infra-auricular Transposition Flap

Jung, Dong Woo; Kang, Dai Hun; Kim, Tae Gon; Lee, Jun Ho; Kim, Yong Ha

Abstract

PURPOSE
Reconstruction of the cleft earlobe is challenging. Several procedures are available to reconstruct congenital earlobe deformities. However, for large defective type, surgical procedures and designs are complex and tend to leave a visible scar. We present a simple method of reconstruction for defective type congenital cleft earlobe using a one stage technique with infra-auricular transposition flap. This allows for easy and accurate size estimation and good aesthetic outcomes.
METHODS
A 4-year-old male patient has congenital cleft earlobe and antihelical deformity. Otoplasty for antihelical deformity correction and one stage infra-auricular transposition flap for earlobe reconstruction were performed. The flap was designed from the inferoanterior margin of the earlobe. The size of the flap was determined based on the normal side, and the width and length of the flap was 1 cm and 3 cm in size, respectively. An incision was made at the midline of the defective lobule. Further, the elevated flap was inserted. The elevated flap and the incision margins of the lobule were sutured together. Then, the donor site was closed primarily.
RESULTS
The volume and shape of the reconstructed earlobe were natural. There was no flap necrosis. The donor site had no morbidities and scar was not easily notable.
CONCLUSION
Infra-auricular transposition flap can be designed easily and offer sufficient volume of earlobe. Furthermore, the scar is inconspicuous. In conclusion, infra-auricular transposition flap can be a good option for reconstructing a large defect type cleft earlobe.