Auricular Reconstruction for Microtia: Part II. Surgical Techniques

TLDR

Reconstructing a microtic ear is one of the most demanding challenges in reconstructive surgery. This review provides a detailed, state‑of‑the‑art overview of the two most common microtia reconstruction techniques, Brent and Nagata. The review examines Brent and Nagata techniques through case material from their originators, discusses common problems and technical points, and surveys future tissue‑engineering advances.

Abstract

Reconstruction of the microtic ear represents one of the most demanding challenges in reconstructive surgery. In this review the two most commonly used techniques for ear reconstruction, the Brent and Nagata techniques, are addressed in detail. Unique to this endeavor, the originator of each technique has been allowed to submit representative case material and to address the pros and cons of the other's technique. What follows is a detailed, insightful overview of microtia reconstruction, as a state of the art. The review then details commonly encountered problems in ear reconstruction and pertinent technical points. Finally, a glimpse into the future is offered with an accounting of the advances made in tissue engineering as this technology applies to auricular reconstruction.