Reconstruction of a facial defect using the ear pinna as a composite flap

A four-month-old, female pit bull was evaluated for multiple, resolving, second- and third-degree burn wounds. The convex surface of the left pinna was severely burned and distorted. Contraction of a large (6 cm by 4 cm), facial cutaneous defect had resulted in contracture of surrounding normal skin and dorsal displacement of both upper eyelids. Decreased ability to blink predisposed the puppy to exposure keratitis. The cutaneous facial defect was repaired using the left pinna as a composite skin flap. Surgery resulted in a successful repair of the defect and immediate return of normal eyelid function.