Pinna fillet flap after advanced external ear tumor resection

Abstract

Reconstruction after excision of infiltrating basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) of the upper pole of the ear can be achieved with different techniques. The concept of spare-part surgery, which allows the surgeon to perform primary reconstruction of a defect without harvesting tissue from the adjacent areas, has been applied to the ear anatomy. We describe our experience with the use of a fillet flap from the residual external ear in two patients out of a series of six, undergoing reconstruction of ear defects after infiltrating BCC resection between January 2011 and December 2014. Reconstruction with the fillet of pinna flap was proven to be an easy surgical technique with good functional and cosmetic outcomes. Our technique, not previously reported, enhances the versatility of ear reconstruction.