Contusions and lacerations to the external ear are common. Total or partial amputation of the auricle presents management problems. Reconstructive procedures described for replacing a partially amputated ear are plentiful, but they are difficult, time consuming, and frequently cosmetically unsatisfactory both from the surgeon's and the patient's viewpoint.
Little has been written in favor of reattachment of a totally or partially amputated auricle. However, careful management using heparinization, vasodilators, and relief of venous congestion by allowing capillary bleeding has been shown to be successful with an excellent cosmetic result.