Ear Reconstruction for Auricle Defects Using an Expanded Neck Flap: A Case Report

This case report describes a patient with a left ear deformity resulting from a flame burn sustained 20 years ago. The patient underwent an ear reconstruction procedure utilizing an expanded neck flap. The autologous rib cartilage was used as the framework, while an expanded neck flap served as the covering for the framework. The surgery was completed in 3 stages. Initially, tissue expanders were implanted and gradually inflated with water. After sufficient expansion, the expanders were removed, and the scar tissue was excised. Subsequently, the expanded flap was used to cover the defects, and the expanded neck flap was rotated to cover the autogenous costal cartilage framework obtained intraoperatively. Finally, the reconstructed ear was repaired by constructing the cephaloauricular sulcus, removing postauricular scars, and trimming the neck-flap pedicle. After a 1-year follow-up, the wound had healed satisfactorily with only minor complications. The shape of the reconstructed ear appeared realistic, and its function was maintained. Most of the scars were repaired, and the scarred alopecia was significantly improved. In patients with limited availability of the postauricular flap, especially burn patients, using an expanded neck flap can lead to superior outcomes.