5.  (a) Review the vascular anatomy of the ear. (b) Is replantation succesful? (c) Where would you look for vessels? (PRS 1992; 90:38)

Answer:
(a)  Two arterial networks exist.   The network of the triangular fossa and the network of the concha.  The first network originates from one subbranch of the upper auricular branch of the superficial temporal artery and branches of the posterior auricular artery that come through the ear lobe and triangular fossa and over the helical margin.  The conchal network is provided by 2 to 4 perforators that come from the posterior auricular artery piercing the conchal floor.  Auricular branches of the superficial temporal artery supply the pre-auricular region.

(b) Yes.

(c)  In front of the tragus.

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