The Cheek Interpolation Flap for Reconstruction of Auricular Mohs Defects

BACKGROUND Surgical reconstruction of auricular defects after Mohs surgery may prove challenging secondary to the complex topography of the ear and few options for local flap repair that do not introduce inordinate risk of anatomic distortion. The matched preauricular skin may be used to overcome these limitations. OBJECTIVE This study aims to examine the utility, technique, and outcomes of preauricular interpolated flaps used for auricular reconstruction. To the authors' knowledge, this study represents the only published series of cheek interpolation flaps for auricular reconstruction. METHODS A retrospective review of interpolated cheek flaps used for auricular reconstruction performed by one surgeon (J.C., 2000-2018) after tumor removal by Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) at a single institution. RESULTS Twenty cheek interpolation flaps were identified that were used to reconstruct defects after complete removal of skin cancer on the ear. No major complications were observed. CONCLUSION Interpolated flaps are a useful reconstructive technique for auricular defects after MMS. Using the hairless isthmus of the preauricular cheek as the donor site for a 2-stage interpolated flap is a means of repairing the auricle when other options are not ideal.