Application of drill in otoplasty: a technical modification.

[PURPOSE] Prominent ear is one of the most common congenital deformities in the head and neck region. More than 100 techniques have been described for correction of prominent ears in literature. Mustarde technique is one of the most widely accepted procedures of otoplasty. In our study, we used a surgical method using a drill for correction of prominent ears in combination with the Mustarde technique. Patients with only lack of antihelical fold were included the study.

[METHODS] Thirty patients were operated on during 2007-2010. The angle of prominent ear from the mastoid tip to the tip of the posterior surface of the auricle was measured preoperatively and postoperatively (3 months after operation) using jib and protractor. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using a questionnaire.

[RESULTS] The angulation of prominent ear was 45.2 ± 8.6 degrees preoperatively. Postoperatively, the angulation was 25.6 ± 6.3 degrees. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Fifteen patients (50%) reported that the operation was very satisfactory, 13 patients (43.4%) reported that the operation was satisfactory, and 2 patients (6.6%) reported that the operation was not satisfactory cosmetically.

[CONCLUSION] The described technique of otoplasty using a drill to thin the auricular cartilage is a safe and easy-to-learn procedure. In Mustarde technique, permanent sutures are used to reshape the cartilage structure in fixed position. Over time, structural strength elasticity of cartilage can weaken the force of sewing forces. Combining the technique with permanent sutures, results were satisfactory. This technique can be used to recreate the antihelical fold. We will follow the cases long term to further show more results.