Arch Plast Surg.  2017 Mar;44(2):166-169. 10.5999/aps.2017.44.2.166.

A New Technique for Conchal Cartilage Harvest

• Kim JY
• Yang HJ
• Jeong JW

• KMID: 2373093
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5999/aps.2017.44.2.166

Abstract

The goal of auricular cartilage harvest is to obtain a sufficient amount for reconstruction and to minimize the change in ear shape. The cartilage can be harvested by a posterior or anterior approach, and each method has advantages and disadvantages. The posterior approach presents the advantage of scar concealment, but there are limits to the amount of cymba cartilage that may be harvested. In contrast, the anterior approach may cause a noticeable scar. However, as cartilage is collected, the anterior approach provides a view that facilitates the preservation ear structure. In addition, it is possible to obtain a greater amount of cartilage. From January 2014 to December 2015, we harvested auricular cartilage graft material in 17 patients. To prevent the development of trapdoor scars or linear scar contracture, short incisions were made on the superior border of the cymba and cavum. Two small and narrow incisions were made, resulting in suboptimal exposure of the surgical site, which heightens the potential for damaging the cartilage when using existing tools. To minimize this, the authors used a newly invented ball-type elevator. All patients recovered without complications after surgery and reported satisfaction with the shape of the ear.

Keyword

Ear cartilage; Tissue and organ harvesting; Autograft

MeSH Terms

Autografts
Cartilage*
Cicatrix
Contracture
Ear
Ear Cartilage
Elevators and Escalators
Humans
Methods
Tissue and Organ Harvesting
Transplants