(Y)ears of Freedom? Customized Splints in Microtia Reconstruction to Maintain Cephloauricular Angle
Background Maintaining ear projection and preservation of cephaloauricular sulcus from obliteration following graft contracture is a challenge following staged microtia reconstruction. Authors have designed simple, effective, and easy-to-use splints to ensure improved aesthetic outcomes and patient...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Thieme Medical and Scientific Publishers Pvt. Ltd.
2019-05-01
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| Series: | Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://www.thieme-connect.de/DOI/DOI?10.1055/s-0039-1693848 |
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| Summary: | Background Maintaining ear projection and preservation of cephaloauricular sulcus from obliteration following graft contracture is a challenge following staged microtia reconstruction. Authors have designed simple, effective, and easy-to-use splints to ensure improved aesthetic outcomes and patient compliance.
Materials and Methods This is a prospective study over 3 years including 8 patients of both sexes aged 6 to 12 years. Custom-made ear splints were designed separately for females and males and used to maintain ear projection. Projection of the ear was measured postoperatively and at follow-up using goniometer and photographic records. Outcome was assessed in terms of cephaloauricular angle, conchal depth, pain, cost-effectiveness, splint retention period, and aesthetics.
Results and Conclusion Maximal follow-up was 2 years. The splint effectively maintained ear projection of more than 30 degrees. Patient compliance was optimal, and no major complications were associated with its prolonged use. |
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| ISSN: | 0970-0358 1998-376X |