Reconstruction of ear canal wall with superior pedicled composite multi-fractured osteoperiosteal flap: a new technique and preliminary outcomes.

OBJECTIVE This study evaluated the functional results of the superior pedicled composite multi-fractured osteoperiosteal flap technique. This method is a novel technique for the reconstruction of the external auditory canal. The study also examined the effect of the superior pedicled composite multi-fractured osteoperiosteal flap technique on patients' disease-related quality of life. METHOD A total of 37 patients who underwent the superior pedicled composite multi-fractured osteoperiosteal flap technique were enrolled in the study. Their functional hearing results and disease-related quality of life scores were evaluated. RESULTS A significant improvement was observed in the patients' hearing scores at the post-operative sixth month relative to the pre-operative period, and the patients' disease-related quality of life increased significantly. CONCLUSION The superior pedicled composite multi-fractured osteoperiosteal flap method can be safely used, especially in patients undergoing retrograde mastoidectomy because of limited cholesteatoma. This method contributes to improving patients' hearing levels and disease-related quality of life.