A Simple Method of Applying Ear Dressing in Microtia Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Numerous splints and ear guards have been described for dressing in microtia patients but each has its own merit and demerit. We have devised a simple method of applying such dressings on the operating table. Materials and Methods: A rectangular piece of lubricated dressing material like paraffin gauze or antibiotic impregnated dressing is cut. The dressing material is than split partially into one thirds in a staggered manner. The dressing material is then applied to the retroauricular sulcus. The fans of the dressing material are then turned onto themselves over the projecting ear which makes the dressing stable in its position. Results: The authors have been regularly using this dressing for reconstruction in all cases of microtia. The dressing stays firmly in place in the peri-operative period and is subsequently replaced by stents. Conclusion: It is a low cost, readily available, simple, fast and effective method of ear dressing in the peri-operative period for microtia cases.