Compression treatment of ear keloids by a modified oyster splint technique

Abstract

Keloids are benign fibrous proliferations, histologically characterized by excessive deposition of dermal collagen in a frequently mucinous matrix, due to increased collagen synthesis in fibroblasts and decreased collagen degradation. Although keloids are benign, they mean a substantial cosmetic disfigurement to the patients, especially if they occur on the ears, leading to a reduction of patients’ quality of life. In addition, they can be itchy and painful. The authors describe the technique of combined modified “oyster splint” technique with intraoperative corticosteroid injection and topical application of a silicone gel sheet.