2025 Volume 53 Issue 1 Pages 9-14
The auricle is an organ of both aesthetic and functional importance and requires appropriate reconstruction in cases of traumatic loss. In this study, we report a case of an 11-year-old boy whose upper auricle was completely amputated due to a fall. The severed portion was initially reattached and managed as a free composite tissue graft. However, partial necrosis subsequently occurred, resulting in contracture and helical rim deformity, necessitating reconstruction. After debridement of the necrotic tissue, reconstruction was performed using a conchal cartilage graft and posterior auricular skin valve. Postoperatively, helical rim contour preservation and functional improvement of the auricle were observed at 3 months and complete flap survival was confirmed at 7 months. Conchal cartilage grafting combined with posterior auricular flap placement appears to be an effective and minimally invasive reconstructive method for repairing helical rim defects.
