The Vascular System of the Superior Auricular Artery: Anatomical Study and Clinical Application

BACKGROUND The retroauricular flap has many advantages for facial reconstruction, but it is difficult to perform reconstruction of the upper part of the auricle and its surroundings. METHODS We investigated the relationship between the superior auricular artery and its surrounding structures through anatomic studies with seven fresh cadavers and applied the findings clinically. From February 2008 to December 2009, we performed 12 cases with the superior auricular artery island flap to reconstruct defects in the upper region of the auricle and its surroundings. RESULTS We found that the superior auricular artery is a reliable pedicle for the retroauricular flap. All wounds of the patients were successfully closed, with the exception of one minor complication. The aesthetic outcomes of the donor and recipient sites were satisfactory. CONCLUSIONS The superior auricular artery island flap has several advantages. Therefore, we suggest that the superior auricular artery island flap can be another choice for reconstructing soft tissue defects at the upper region of the auricle and its surrounding area. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.