COMPLETE EAR REPLANTATION WITHOUT VENOUS ANASTOMOSIS

Traumatic amputation of the entire auricle is a rare occurrence. Manag ement ideally consists of microvascular reconstruction of auricular ar terial, venous, and nerve continuity. However, appropriately sized vei ns are often not available and venous drainage must be accomplished wi th leech therapy. In occasional cases where leeches are unavailable or cannot be made to attach, mechanical drainage and anticoagulation can give satisfactory drainage. The authors present a case of mechanical wick venous drainage of a complete ear replantation, resulting in virt ually normal appearance and function of the ear. In addition, the ear regained normal touch and two-point sensibility, although the great au ricular nerve had not been repaired. (C) 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.