Auricular reconstruction with postauricular myocutaneous flap.

In the past reconstruction of large auricular defects more than 2 cm have been repaired with the use of local skin flaps from various sites in multiple stages. This entails longer hospitalization and a poorer aesthetic result. We developed a postauricular myocutaneous flap that has been used successfully in five patients. The cosmetic results are superior to previously described reconstructive techniques. This flap, which can be used in immediate one-stage reconstruction, is based on the auricular branch of the posterior auricular artery. This vessel supplies the auricularis posterior muscle, the skin over the mastoid, and the cranial surface of the auricle. This vessel was dissected and found to be anatomically consistent in five cadavers.