Non-microvascular successful management of near-total ear avulsion
Case report published in Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open (2021)
Abstract
Traumatic ear avulsion represents a difficult challenge for all reconstructive surgeons; hence, replantation and reattachment will provide the best aesthetic outcome. However, when microsurgery is not possible, the surgeon must choose the most appropriate alternative method to address the concern. We are reporting a case of a near-total right ear external auricle amputation attached only by small skin bridge. The patient was admitted to our institute 22 hours after sustaining an injury during a motor vehicle collision. He was successfully managed by reattaching the external auricle into the anatomical place, with the repair of cartilage. This was followed by applying a daily protocol for venous congestion with the use of subcutaneous and intradermal injection of low-molecular-weight heparin daily for 10 days with gradual tapering of the dose. The external auricle survived with no complications or morbidity. Subcutaneous and intradermal low-molecular-weight heparin can be used effectively in cases of severe venous congestion of avulsed ear with adequate arterial inflow without causing any morbidity.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
Near-total ear avulsion managed by reattachment without microsurgery, with venous congestion controlled by daily subcutaneous + intradermal low-molecular-weight heparin for 10 days.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
Este caso clínico describe un paciente con amputación casi total de la oreja manejada mediante reimplante no microvascular, seguido de un protocolo de 10 días de heparina de bajo peso molecular subcutánea e intradérmica para abordar la congestión venosa, con supervivencia de la oreja sin complicaciones. El tema es indirectamente relevante para el ámbito de ASH porque la congestión venosa tras el reimplante tisular es un escenario clínico donde las sanguijuelas medicinales se utilizan en ocasiones como alternativa o adyuvante. Sin embargo, este estudio empleó un abordaje farmacológico en lugar de terapia con sanguijuelas, y no se utilizaron sanguijuelas. Se trata de un caso clínico aislado, y el protocolo de heparina no informa directamente la práctica de la hirudoterapia, aunque aborda el mismo problema clínico que las sanguijuelas tratan.
Citación
Non-microvascular successful management of near-total ear avulsion.
Albdour M et al. · Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open, 2021
Contexto clínico relacionado
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 27, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: 18 de junio de 2026