Reconstruction after extirpation of the auricle

The purpose of this study is to introduce the procedure and results of a co mbined free flap reconstruction with an external ear prosthesis after tumor extirpation from the lateral side of the head. Over the last 3 years, four patients have undergone total auricle extirpation for varying tumor proces ses. Each was reconstructed with a radial forearm flap, preserving the exte rnal auditory meatus. After primary healing and adjuvant therapy, a prosthe tic pinna was applied. Combined use of microsurgical techniques with a pros thetic ear has produced an aesthetically superior result for large soft-tis sue defects of the side of the head. This combined technique is able to pro vide the best aspects of both microsurgical and prosthetic reconstructions for a superior result for the patient.