• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
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• v.21 no.4
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• pp.225-228
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• 2020

Background: The aim of this study is to develop a two-stage training module using radish and swine scapular cartilage for carving ear cartilage. Methods: In the first stage, white radish was cut in 3-6 mm thick slices. The ear cartilage framework was carved using a graver and the helix and antihelix were fixed with pins. In the second stage, swine scapular cartilage was obtained. The thickness varied 3-6 mm. The ear cartilage framework was made. And triangular fossa and scaphoid fossa were carved with graver. A curvilinear cartilage for helix was assembled to the framework by pin fixing. Six participants were recruited for an ear reconstruction training workshop and figures of the cartilage framework were provided. Participants were asked answer the pre-workshop questionnaire and post-workshop questionnaire on a Likert scale to rate their satisfaction with the outcome. Results: On the pre-workshop questionnaire, participants indicated that they did not have sufficient knowledge and skill for fabricating the ear cartilage framework (1.5±0.5 using white radish; 1.3±0.5 using swine scapular cartilage). On the post-workshop questionnaire, participants responded that they had learned useful knowledge from this workshop, reflecting a significant improvement (3.8±1.0 using white radish; 4.0±1.1 using swine scapular cartilage). They also indicated that they had become somewhat confident in this skill (4.2±0.8 using white radish; 4.3±0.5 using swine scapular cartilage. The participants generally found the workshop satisfactory (practically helpful, 4.7±0.5; knowledge improved, 4.8±0.4; satisfied with course, 4.5±0.5; would recommend to others, 4.8±0.4). Conclusion: This model can be useful for ear reconstruction training for medical personnel.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
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• v.22 no.5
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• pp.260-267
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• 2021

Background: Elastic ear cartilage is a good source of tissue for support or augmentation in plastic and reconstructive surgery. However, the amount of ear cartilage is limited and excessive use of cartilage can cause deformation of the auricular framework. This animal study investigated the potential of periosteal chondrogenesis in an ear cartilage defect model. Methods: Twelve New Zealand white rabbits were used in the present study. Four ear cartilage defects were created in both ears of each rabbit, between the central artery and marginal veins. The defects were covered with perichondrium (group 1), periosteum taken from the calvarium (group 2), or periosteum taken from the tibia (group 3). No coverage was performed in a control group (group 4). All animals were sacrificed 6 weeks later, and the ratio of neo-cartilage to defect size was measured. Results: Significant chondrogenesis occurred only in group 1 (cartilage regeneration ratio: mean±standard deviation, 0.97±0.60), whereas the cartilage regeneration ratio was substantially lower in group 2 (0.10±0.11), group 3 (0.08±0.09), and group 4 (0.08±0.14) (p= 0.004). Instead of chondrogenesis, osteogenesis was observed in the periosteal graft groups. No statistically significant differences were found in the amount of osteogenesis or chondrogenesis between groups 2 and 3. Group 4 showed fibrous tissue accumulation in the defect area. Conclusion: Periosteal grafts showed weak chondrogenic potential in an ear cartilage defect model of rabbits; instead, they exhibited osteogenesis, irrespective of their embryological origin.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.50 no.4
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• pp.393-397
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• 2023

Constricted ear has a prevalence of 5.2 to 10% among ear abnormalities, and various surgical methods are suggested for treatment. We introduce a case of a constricted ear treated with a simple method using a novel concept cartilage graft and transposition flap, along with the well-known Mustardé suture, which is used for pediatric patients with mild to moderate constricted ears of Tanzer classification type IIA. A 10-year-old female patient visited the hospital complaining of an abnormality in the congenital right ear. Surgical approach was planned under the diagnosis of Tanzer classification type IIA constricted right ear. Posterior helix onlay graft and perichondrocutaneous transposition flap using excessive helical cartilage were performed along with the Mustardé suture. In the immediate postoperative period, ear contour was improved, and it was well-maintained without recurrence until 6 months' follow-up. In conclusion, the combination of Mustardé suture, and cartilage onlay graft and perichondrocutaneous transposition flap in the mild to moderate constricted ear would be a useful surgical option, producing aesthetically good results in a simple and effective method.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.44 no.2
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• pp.166-169
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• 2017

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.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
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• v.18 no.3
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• pp.155-161
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• 2017

Background: Because of the relatively similar size of organs to human and the physiological and structural similarities, the use of porcine as xenograft donors is progressing very actively. In this study, we analyzed the characteristics of porcine ear cartilage and evaluated its suitability as graft material in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Methods: The auricular cartilage was harvested from two pigs, and subjected to histological examination by immunohistochemical staining. To determine the collagen content, samples were treated with collagenase and weight changes were measured. After sterilization by irradiation, the samples were grafted into rats and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin and Masson Trichrome to observe inflammation and xenograft rejection. Results: In IHC staining, extracellular matrices were mainly stained with type II collagen (20.69%), keratin sulfate (10.20%), chondroitin sulfate (2.62%), and hyaluronic acid (0.84%). After collagenase treatment, the weight decreased by 68.3%, indicating that about 70% of the porcine ear cartilage was composed of collagen. Upon xenograft of the sterilized cartilages in rats, inflammatory cells were observed for up to 2 months. However, they gradually decreased, and inflammation and reject-response were rarely observed at 5 months. Conclusion: The porcine ear cartilage was covered with perichondrium and cellular constituents were found to be composed of chondrocytes and chondroblasts. In addition, the extracellular matrices were mainly composed of collagen. Upon xenograft of irradiated cartilage into rats, there was no specific inflammatory reaction around the transplanted cartilage. These findings suggest that porcine ear cartilage could be a useful alternative implant material for human cosmetic surgery.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.32 no.1
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• pp.60-66
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• 2005

Total auricular reconstruction with autogenous tissue remains one of the greatest technical challenges for reconstructive plastic surgeons because of the ear's complex morphology with delicately convoluted cartilages and very thin skin. In a successfully created ear, a natural three-dimensional illusion visualized from the patient's profile, frontal, and posterior views is crucial. Accordingly ear framework should have adequate lateral aspect as well as suitable frontal aspect even before being lifted to this purpose. For this goal, rib cartilage should be harvested from three-dimensionally adequate area. It is the most essential point in framework fabrication that the baseblock should have semi-cup curvature via multiple parallel cuts made on its medial surface. Between January 1999 and May 2003, we performed 29 cases of total ear reconstruction with autogenous rib cartilage graft using this scoring technique and obtained satisfactory results, which showed more natural appearance visualized from the patient's profile, frontal, and posterior views.

• International Journal of Stem Cells
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• v.16 no.3
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• pp.304-314
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• 2023

Background and Objectives: Ear cartilage malformations are commonly encountered problems in reconstructive surgery, since cartilage has low self-regenerating capacity. Malformations that impose psychological and social burden on one's life are currently treated using ear prosthesis, synthetic implants or autologous flaps from rib cartilage. These approaches are challenging because not only they request high surgical expertise, but also they lack flexibility and induce severe donor-site morbidity. Through the last decade, tissue engineering gained attention where it aims at regenerating human tissues or organs in order to restore normal functions. This technique consists of three main elements, cells, growth factors, and above all, a scaffold that supports cells and guides their behavior. Several studies have investigated different scaffolds prepared from both synthetic or natural materials and their effects on cellular differentiation and behavior. Methods and Results: In this study, we investigated a natural scaffold (alginate) as tridimensional hydrogel seeded with progenitors from different origins such as bone marrow, perichondrium and dental pulp. In contact with the scaffold, these cells remained viable and were able to differentiate into chondrocytes when cultured in vitro. Quantitative and qualitative results show the presence of different chondrogenic markers as well as elastic ones for the purpose of ear cartilage, upon different culture conditions. Conclusions: We confirmed that auricular perichondrial cells outperform other cells to produce chondrogenic tissue in normal oxygen levels and we report for the first time the effect of hypoxia on these cells. Our results provide updates for cartilage engineering for future clinical applications.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.36 no.2
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• pp.167-173
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• 2009

Purpose: The key points of treatment of cryptotia are the elevation of invaginated ear helix and the correction of deformed cartilage. Prevention of stabilized cartilage contouring from returning to the previous state is also important. The authors carried otoplasty by modified Onizuka's method or Ohmori's method that conchal cartilage graft or high density polyethylene implant(MEDPOR$^{(R)}$) graft served as fixation after spreading posterior aspect of adhered antihelix and a splint for prevention of recurrence of cartilage deformities. The aim of this study is to reveal the availability of the high density polyethylene implant(MEDPOR$^{(R)}$) graft for the correction of cryptotia. Methods: We have repaired 17 cryptotic deformities using cartilage graft from cavum of concha(12 cases) or high density polyethylene implant(5 cases) for correction of deformed cartilage. We investigate the operative time, complications, and satisfaction of postoperative ear shape on both autogenous cartilage graft group and high density polyethylene implant graft group. Results: There was 1 case of reinvagination on autogenous cartilage graft group. Implant exposure was occurred on high density polyethylene implant graft group, as 1 case. These were statistically no differences between autogenous cartilage graft group and high density polyethylene implant graft group to the satisfaction of ear shape. Conclusion: High density polyethylene implant(MEDPOR$^{(R)}$) present an alternative to autogenous material as they allow of fibrovascular ingrowth, leading to stability of the implant and decreased infection rates. The correction of deformed cartilage by using the high density polyethylene implant(MEDPOR$^{(R)}$) is a good option for the treatment of cryptotia.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.47 no.4
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• pp.317-323
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• 2020

Background Microtia with constricted features is characterized by a short helical length of variable severity, upper antihelical or scaphal deficiency, and a downfolded upper ear. No consensus has been reached regarding the most appropriate surgical method for this condition. In this study, we aimed to introduce a simple and safe surgical method for the correction or reconstruction of upper helix ear deformities. Methods Between February 2011 and June 2014, eight patients with microtia with constricted upper helix ear deformity underwent reconstruction of the ear deformity. The upper ear helical framework was constructed by carving and curving the eighth rib cartilage harvested from the ipsilateral chest wall, covering this cartilage with a superficial temporal fascial flap, and adjusting the skin graft to align with the ear contour. To evaluate their satisfaction, patients were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding ear shape, symmetry, position, color, and overall outcome scored on a 5-point scale at 12 months postoperatively. Results None of the patients experienced severe complications in the reconstructed ear. The preoperative and postoperative vertical ear length ratios were 0.88 and 1.02, respectively. And the mean patient satisfaction scores for shape, symmetry, position, color, and overall outcome were 4.2, 4.5, 4.7, 4.4, and 4.6 out of 5 points, respectively. All patients expressed a high level of satisfaction at 12 months postoperatively. Conclusions Our technique provides a good alternative method for the reconstruction of moderate constricted upper helix ear deformities in patients who meet the surgical indications with satisfactory outcomes and few complications.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
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• v.20 no.6
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• pp.405-407
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• 2019

Due to the variety in the shape of dysmorphic cartilage, tragus reconstruction is one of the most challenging goals in otoplasty. The authors describe a method to reconstruct a prominent tragus in a simple way suitable for accounting for the size, shape, and location of the remaining ear. We present a case of tragus deformity in an 11-year-old female patient after a previous excision of pretragal skin tags. There was a small remnant of the deeply located dystopic cartilage in a horizontal orientation. The dystopic cartilage was used to reconstruct the tragus using a chondrocutaneous transposition flap. Only a small portion of the pre-existing cartilage was used to create a chondrocutaneous transposition flap that supplemented the portion of cartilage during tragus reconstruction. The result was a new tragus that showed acceptable improvement in shape, location, and projection. Patients with a small portion of pre-existing cartilage near the tragal wall may benefit from the use of this method for tragus reconstruction.