Auricular Reconstruction Following Wide Excision of Arteriovenous Malformation in Auricular Region

Abstract

　　We report a case-series of secondary reconstructed auricular defects following wide resection of arteriovenous malformation in the auricular region. Our main method of auricular reconstruction involves the use of a tissue expander to expand the skin of a free flap prior to costal cartilage grafting, and this method results in a relatively functional auricule. One of five cases showed recurrence of the lesion, and one showed exposure of the costal cartilage. In cases of wide excision of arteriovenous malformation, reconstruction with a stable vascularized flap is preferable to prevent recurrence, and auricular reconstruction should be considered after confirming that symptoms are stable. Although relatively favorable results can be obtained by expanding the skin of a free flap, attention should always be paid to the risk of exposure of grafted cartilage due to thinning of the flap skin.