Reconstruction of ear canal wall with superior pedicled composite multi-fractured osteoperiosteal flap: a new technique and preliminary outcomes

J Laryngol Otol. 2021 Oct 22:1-4. doi: 10.1017/S0022215121003078. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated the functional results of the superior pedicled composite multi-fractured osteoperiosteal flap technique. This method is a novel technique for the reconstruction of the external auditory canal. The study also examined the effect of the superior pedicled composite multi-fractured osteoperiosteal flap technique on patients' disease-related quality of life.

Method: A total of 37 patients who underwent the superior pedicled composite multi-fractured osteoperiosteal flap technique were enrolled in the study. Their functional hearing results and disease-related quality of life scores were evaluated.

Results: A significant improvement was observed in the patients' hearing scores at the post-operative sixth month relative to the pre-operative period, and the patients' disease-related quality of life increased significantly.

Conclusion: The superior pedicled composite multi-fractured osteoperiosteal flap method can be safely used, especially in patients undergoing retrograde mastoidectomy because of limited cholesteatoma. This method contributes to improving patients' hearing levels and disease-related quality of life.

Keywords: External Auditory Canal; Modified Radical Mastoidectomy; Reconstruction.