Free dermofat grafting for chest deformity in microtia reconstruction

Objective Chest deformity is one of the complications that occurs after costal cartilage harvesting for auricle reconstruction. In this study, we presented a novel method of free dermofat grafting to repair cartilage defect and aimed to evaluate its effect in ameliorating chest deformity. Methods Seventy-six pediatric patients were included in the study, comprising free dermofat grafting group (n = 38) and control group (n = 38). After harvesting costal cartilage, empty perichondrial space of right seventh costal cartilage was filled with free dermofat grafts in free dermofat grafting group. Thoracic computed tomography (CT) was performed three months after surgery and 3D colormap quantification was performed to quantify chest surface asymmetry. The quantified data were further analyzed to compare chest asymmetry level in free dermofat grafting and control groups. Results In the free dermofat grafting group, the mean of asymmetry level was 2.2 mm. While in the control group, the mean of asymmetry was 5.7 mm. After a comparison between the two groups, the level of asymmetry showed a significant difference (p < 0.01). Conclusion Free dermofat grafting method is easy to perform and a feasible option for ameliorating chest deformity in microtia reconstruction.