DOHA - The Plastic and Reconstructive Department at the Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has undertaken six successful Total Ear Rib-Cartilage Reconstruction surgeries, since its launch recently. This kind of reconstructive surgery is one of the latest procedures in the field.
"The surgery is one of the latest additions to the department," said Dr Saed M Kaldari, Consultant Plastic Surgery.
"The surgery is unique to HMC. This is the only hospital that provides the surgery in the whole Middle East region," he told the Peninsula.
The surgery was first performed in Europe by team of Swedish surgeons in 2006 and Dr Kaldari was one of them.
Reconstruction of the ear is one of the most challenging task that a reconstructive surgeon faces as it demands precise technique combined with artistic creativity.
To re-create the folds and intricate convoluted cartilaginous framework enveloped by a thin soft tissue requires artistry, creativity and enormous patience.
The cartilage is removed from the lower ribs of the opposite side of the body. The rib cartilage is carved to resemble an external ear, which is then placed under the skin of the affected side.
"The surgery is available only in a few centres around the world and only less than 20 surgeons do this procedure. In Doha the number of cases is less compared to Europe, which might be due to comparatively less population and health awareness," he said.
Psychological effects of an ear deformity play a significant role in reconstruction.
"In European countries, parents make sure that the children are free of deformities before they are sent to school. Children are some times teased at schools due to their disfigured or huge ears. This can do a huge injury to a child's self esteem and causing psychological disorders. Parents here also should be aware of these problems."
"Plastic surgery is not merely cosmetic as many people consider it. 90 percent of the actual specialty is not cosmetic related. The main focus of the department at HMC is to provide reconstructive work for congenital anomalies, inborn errors, post trauma and burn defects and post tumors."
This does not mean that cosmetic surgery is less in Qatar. Ever since the introduction of plastic surgery, the number of patients has increased steadily.
There has been an increase in the percentage of males seeking cosmetic procedure. The number of surgeons at the department has increased to meet this growing demand.
"We are now able to offer more. Doctors here have sub-specialty and hence are experts in the particular regions which they have specialised," Dr Kaldari said.
By Huda NV
© The Peninsula 2008
