LAUSR

Early tumours of the ear can be recognised as small, translucent light coloured papules of the skin (Fig. 1a). The complex concavities and convexities of the ear, in addition to the elastic cartilaginous framework, render treatment of malignancies in this area a significant challenge with regard to surgical clearance, functionality and aesthetic outcome. Moh’s surgical procedure is the current gold standard to remove most skin carcinomas, ensuring the utmost scrutiny of excision margins and the optimum final aesthetic result through the smallest possible defect. Tumour extension into the external ear, cartilaginous portions of the conchae, antihelix and antitragusmay require extensive clearance (Fig. 1b). This may lead to postoperative complications, such as stenosis of the external ear canal which may subsequently lead to difficulties with ventilation, hearing and self-cleaning. The use of individually fitted ear canal splints to prevent stenosis aftermastoidectomy and the treatment of an extensive traumatic ear injury are beneficial. However, these splints are often custom-made which may take several weeks and can be challenging to keep clean. Additionally, they may be costly and often require the expertise of an anaplastologist specifically, which can further delay their manufacture. We present a cost-effective and rapid technique for the prevention of postoperative ear canal stenosis, requiring minimal expertise to design an ear splint, using dental impression material.