Current opinion on auricular reconstruction

Abstract

This article gives an overview of the current practice in the field of auricular reconstruction and summarizes the recent surgical developments and relevant tissue engineering research.

Chondrogenesis of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells by In Vivo Co-graft with Auricular Chondrocytes from Microtia

“…Although tissue engineering has made much progress, it remains a great challenge to reconstruct functional tissue organs such as the ears, which are large in size with delicate structures [2][3][4]. The major issue is the acquirement of sufficient cartilaginous seed cells with robust chondrogenic abilities.…”

“…However, the surgical results largely rely on the selected materials for auricular scaffolds [2]. Currently, autologous rib cartilages is most commonly used as auricular scaffolds for external ear reconstruction, but due to the significant morbidity of the donor site and limited sources, tissue engineering has been introduced and may become a better choice for clinical application in the future [3].…”

Biomechanical Characterisation of the Human Auricular Cartilages; Implications for Tissue Engineering

“…Affecting one in 6000 live births, microtia can appear in isolation or as a feature of other syndromes such as Hemifacial microsomia or Treacher collins syndrome 11. Currently, the gold standard surgical technique for ear reconstruction is using autologous rib cartilage 16. The first stage involves carving and joining together the rib cartilage to create a framework to replicate a new ear 16.…”

“…The first stage involves carving and joining together the rib cartilage to create a framework to replicate a new ear 16. There are a number of complications with this reconstructive technique,11 including the surgery must be delayed until the child is 6–10 years,16 associated cartilage donor site risks including pneumothorax and chest wall deformities7 and rib cartilage can warp over time 2,7,18,23. In the motivation to avoid extracting costal cartilage and provide earlier surgical intervention, alloplastic materials are currently being used to reconstruct the ear.…”

Modular Component Assembly Approach to Microtia Reconstruction

“…16 Comprehensive tissue engineering approaches are promising, but broad clinical use for microtia is still likely at least a decade away. 17 Hence, there remains a need for a simplified method to reconstruct the auricular framework using native tissue with less donor site morbidity and acceptable cosmetic results.…”