Establishment of a bone-anchored auricular prosthesis (BAAP) program

Objective: Bone-anchored auricular prostheses (BAAPs) are indicated for treatment of congenital or acquired microtia in children. This paper reports on our experience in establishing a BAAP program, including treatment algorithms, protocols and a discussion of the methodology, complications and patient satisfaction. Methods: Eleven consecutive children using BAAPs were reviewed. Outcome measures include patient selection criteria, long-term stability of the BAAP, skin reactions around the site, and patient satisfaction. Results: A patient selection program was developed and implemented, followed by a management protocol for surgery and follow-up. All children (100%) achieved osseointegration, with only one site revision necessary. A variable degree of skin irritation was noted in just over one third (39%) of cases. All children were satisfied with their prosthesis. Conclusions: The use of BAAPs in a pediatric population is a safe and viable method to correct disfiguring microtia. The final result is generally very acceptable to the child. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.