External auditory canal reconstruction with inferior pedicled square screw flap from the preauricular area after resection of external auditory canal cancer

Abstract

Abstract Background The postoperative reconstruction of ear canal cancer with a local flap such as the snail flap technique has been reported for cases with few tissue defects. The snail flap technique requires a large skin incision and is at risk of facial neuropathy. We have devised a new flap that addresses these problems. Methods An 80‐year‐old woman underwent total right ear canal resection for cancer of the right ear canal, and the defect of the ear canal was reconstructed using a local flap. The local flap was used by making a rectangular incision in front of the auricle and rolling it into a cylindrical shape. We named this flap a square screw flap. Results The patient was discharged 1 week after surgery without complications. Conclusions This method is considered to be useful for reconstruction of the ear canal with a small defect.

Keywords

• external auditory canal cancer
• external auditory canal reconstruction
• pedicled flap
• reconstruction after tumor excision
• square screw flap