Abstract
The artwork of making the epithesis by the dedicated anaplastologist is the prerequisite
of acceptance by the patient and the key for success of this approach. However, computer
science is helping with virtual planning and rapid prototyping, and it is likely to
revolutionize this process in the near future. One of the advantages of the auricular
prostheses is that it can be manufactured as a mirrored replica of the opposite side
(if normal or near normal). Furthermore, the results are predictable, and may be shown
to the patient before surgery. The developments of various implant systems allow secure
retention even in unfavorable anatomic situations as in the ideally pneumatized mastoid
process. The advantage of the plate systems is that they spread the loading forces
to multiple smaller bone screws, rendering it thereby resistant to torque with abutment
insertion or magnet change. Auricular prostheses fulfill three roles: (1) temporary
measure, (2) rescue procedure in failed auricular (re)construction, and (3) definitive
treatment option. Conventional retention by medical adhesives, sometimes helped by
making use of the remnant, keeps its place in the use as a temporary measure or if
the patient declines surgery. Today, implant-retained auricular prostheses made of
silicone are state of the art for prosthetic rehabilitation of patients with auricular
defects.
Keywords
epithesis - auricular prosthesis - osseointegrated implant - bone anchorage
