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Reconstruction of the microtic external ear in adults using porous polyethylene implant

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Abstract

Autogenous rib cartilage and many other materials have been used for external ear reconstruction. Although the most commonly used material is the former, harvesting, carving and shaping are problems. Recently, porous polyethylene implants have proved to be useful for ear reconstruction. Ten ear reconstructions were performed in adults using porous polyethylene implants over the last two years. The patients were treated in two stages. First, the material was implanted and at the second stage the ear was elevated and the lobule was transposed. Both stages were performed under local anesthesia. There were three exposures which were managed without implant removal. One infected implant was salvaged by irrigation with antibiotics. All reconstructions were accepted as pleasing by the patients.

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Şengezer, M., Türegün, M., Işik, S. et al. Reconstruction of the microtic external ear in adults using porous polyethylene implant. Eur J Plast Surg 19, 314–317 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00180325

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