Amrita Hospital, Faridabad successfully restored the ear of a 22-year-old local man after a traumatic dog bite incident. The patient, whose ear was severely bitten by his pet pitbull, was left with only a 2mm skin bridge keeping the ear attached, devoid of any blood supply.
The complex reconstructive surgery, led by Dr. Mohit Sharma, Head of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, spanned 11 hours and involved intricate microsurgical techniques. “The vessels of the ear are incredibly small, less than 0.5mm, and they were torn, which made the surgery particularly difficult,” Dr. Sharma explained. The medical team used vein segments from the patient’s body to repair the damaged artery and vein, ensuring blood flow could be restored.
The procedure was divided into two phases—an initial six-hour surgery followed by a second, lasting five hours. The team used high-powered microscopes and specialized instruments to ensure precision in reconnecting the blood vessels. Following the successful revascularization, the patient’s ear was saved, and his risk of permanent disfigurement was averted.
Amid the reconstructive work, doctors also administered anti-rabies immunoglobulin and antibiotics to counter the high risk of infection from the dog bite, a vital step in the patient’s recovery process.
Dr. Devajyoti Guin, Senior Consultant at the hospital, explained that the most challenging aspect was the reattachment of the minuscule artery and vein. “We had to reattempt the arterial connection to ensure sufficient blood flow, a critical step in the ear’s survival.”
Expressing gratitude, the patient stated, “Getting my ear back feels like reclaiming a part of myself. I’m incredibly thankful to the team at Amrita Hospital for saving me from disfigurement.”
This groundbreaking surgery, one of only 47 similar cases worldwide, underscores Amrita Hospital Faridabad’s expertise and cutting-edge capabilities in microsurgery, marking a milestone in India’s reconstructive surgery landscape.
