A long-term analysis of auricular position in pediatric patients who underwent post-auricular approaches

Objective: Post-auricular approach is commonly used in otologic surgery. The objective of this study was to ascertain whether post-auricular approach alters the position of the auricle. Methods: All patients who underwent post-auricular approach for mastoidectomy or tympanoplasty from October 2010 to June 2012 were enrolled. Measurements of ear prominence at three distinct sites were taken preoperatively, and postoperatively at day one and at three and 12 months. Data were analyzed with repeated measures ANOVA analysis. Results: Nineteen patients were included in the study. Mean age at surgery was 9.05 years; 11 were male and 8 were female. Overall, there was no statistically significant long-term postoperative change in any of the three measurements, indicating stability of the auricular position. No difference was also noted on the basis of patient variables. Conclusion: Post-auricular approach did not alter the position of the external ear in our patient population.