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Simulation Presentations

Simulation Presentations

Ear Framework Creation for Microtia Reconstruction

Saturday, October 11, 2025
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM EDT
Location: Simulation Pavilion 1
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Microtia, a condition characterized by the underdevelopment of the outer ear (auricle), occurs in about 0.03% of live births. One of the most challenging skills for reconstructive surgeons is carving a framework from autologous rib cartilage for auricular reconstruction. The complexity of creating a 3D structure makes it difficult for surgeons to gain experience, especially since errors in carving can lead to significant complications. Therefore, it is essential for surgeons to have opportunities to practice these skills, which opens the door for surgical simulation.

This course is tailored for surgeons at all training levels involved in the complete reconstruction of microtia patients. It features advanced carving simulation stations for experienced surgeons, as well as step-by-step reconstructive procedures for those with little or no experience in microtia surgery. These procedures will cover everything from replicating the ear from the contralateral side to creating a skin pocket and carving the cartilage.

Participants will have the chance to practice hands-on carving of costal cartilage, with guidance from renowned experts in the field. Small group sessions will enhance the learning experience, and each participant will receive a full life-size pediatric costal cartilage model, along with a high-density porous polyethylene counterpart, for carving and assembly. By the end of the course, attendees will have successfully created an auricular framework.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Analyze the ear anatomy to accurately describe the abnormality.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Describe factors that identify the optimal candidates for auricular reconstruction.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Implement the techniques learned during the simulation into his/her practice.

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: The 2023 and 2024 sessions were well attended, and the 2023 one was the first session with two stations for surgeons with different experiences. Hands-on experience is needed to achieve satisfactory techniques for cartilage ear carving.

    Lead Instructor(s)

  • Yi-Chun Carol Liu, MD

    Associate Professor
    Texas Children's Hospital
    Bellaire, TX, United States

    Disclosure information not submitted.

    • Instructor(s)

  • Hung-Fu Charlie Lin, MSN, APRN-CNP, FNP-C, CNOR-PEDS, CRNFA, CNAMB, FCN, FAORN

    Nurse Practitioner, RN First Assistant
    Stanford University Medical Ctr Div of Otolaryngology
    Mountain View, CA, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

    • Lead Instructor(s)

  • Mai Thy T. Truong, MD

    Clinical Professor
    Stanford Univ Med Sch
    Stanford, California, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

    • Instructor(s)

  • Kathleen C. Sie, MD

    Professor
    Seattle Children's Hospital
    Seattle, WA, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

  • DZ

    David A. Zopf, MD, MS

    Associate Professor
    University of Michigan
    Ann Arbor, MI, United States

    Disclosure information not submitted.

  • Jason S. Park, MD, PhD

    Assistant Professor
    Vanderbilt University
    Nashville, TN, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.