Crusotomy: A safe, simple surgical technique to facilitate resection and reconstruction of poorly accessible auricular tumors

Background. Carcinomas of the ear are commonly referred to Mohs surgeons because of their tendency for subclinical spread and location in poorly accessible anatomic areas. A simple technique, the crusotomy, is described that improves access to superior conchal lesions, facilitating resection of these tumors and repair of their resultant defects. Objective. To describe a surgical technique, the crusotomy, which facilitates the resection and repair of poorly accessible auricular tumors. Methods. Five patients with superior conchal tumors are presented who underwent crusotomy before resection of their tumors. All patients had immediate reconstruction of the resultant defect with either local flaps or grafts and were seen in follow-up at 1-week and 1-month intervals. Results. Excellent cosmetic results were obtained in all five patients with no postoperative complications. Conclusion. Crusotomy is a safe, rapid, and simple technique that facilitates the resection and repair of poorly accessible auricular tumors.