Reconstruction of Conchal Defects after Chemically Assisted Dissection of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Background: En block resection of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the concha represents a reconstruction challenge, due to the complex topography and difficult access. Objective: The objective of the present paper is to describe the chemically assisted dissection (CADISS) of SCC originating in the auricular concha and the following reconstruction of the conchal cavity with a post-auricular island flap (PIF), taking care to minimize injury to the donor site. Methods: Twenty-six patients having a diagnosis of SCC of the auricular concha were included in the study. ‘En bloc’ removal of the tumor was accomplished, leaving the adjacent conchal cartilage attached to the tumor and using the CADISS technique to preserve the deep perichondrium. A PIF was used to repair the auricular conchal defect. Results: Flaps were normal at 10 days and at 1-month follow-up. No tumor recurrence was observed. No complications were observed. According to the SCAR scale, good aesthetic outcomes were achieved in all cases, both at the auricular concha and at the donor site. Conclusion: CADISS facilitates the complete removal of the tumor with the preservation of the surrounding normal tissues. A post-auricular island flap can be easily pulled through a post-auricular tunnel to repair the defect and the donor site can be closed primarily.

Keywords

• squamous cell carcinoma
• auricular conchal defect
• post-auricular island flap
• chemically assisted dissection