The punch and graft technique: a novel method of surgical treatment for chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis.

BACKGROUND

Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis (CDNH) is a painful inflammatory condition affecting the helix of the ear. Several surgical treatments are described in the literature, with different cure rates and cosmetic outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the cure rate of a novel method of surgical treatment, the 'punch and graft' technique, for CDNH and to compare this with reported techniques.

METHODS

Twenty-three lesions in 22 patients over a period of 7 years and 4 months were treated with the punch and graft technique, which is described.

RESULTS

A cure rate of 83% was obtained. The patients were followed up for a period of 1-86 months and cosmetic results were good.

CONCLUSIONS

The punch and graft technique is a novel method for surgical treatment of CDNH, with results comparable with those of existing methods.