Threshold of tactile perception in a reconstructed auricle

Abstract

There are more important outcome variables than the aesthetic when it comes to a successful result in reconstruction of the ear for microtia. The protective sensitivity, for example, is important to avoid damage to the skin covering the cartilaginous framework. We studied 39 patients with unilateral microtia and recorded their skin sensitivity more than six months after the last operation. The Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament Test (SWMT) was used to assess the threshold of protective sensitivity in three particular areas: the helix, the anthelix, and the lobule. The opposite ear served as control. A monofilament of 4.31 or less was regarded as acceptable protective sensitivity. Thirty-two patients had acceptable sensitivity in the whole ear, but the helix gave a poor result in seven patients and in one of them so did the anthelix.

Key Words::

• Microtia
• reconstruction
• threshold
• tactile
• sensitivity
• surgery

Acknowledgements

We thank associate professor Jonas Manjer for advice about statistical analysis. This study was supported by Stiftelsen för plastikkirurgisk forskning, Malmö, and research funds of Region Skåne.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.