Treatment of ear keloids by the oyster-splint technique

Treatment of ear keloids poses a therapeutic challenge. Because of the high likelihood of recurrence of up to 80 % excision should be combined with other treatment options. Postoperative injection of intralesional corticosteroids or cryotherapy is often not sufficient to prevent recurrence of the keloid. Compression can be a useful therapeutic tool. We describe production of and therapy with a compressive device, made from acrylate - the so-called oyster-splint technique. The keloid is first excised and a silicone impression is taken. From this a dental laboratory makes a master die and fabricates an individual compressive device made of two shells. By use of screws pressure on the patient's ear can be adjusted. Assuming compliance, this therapy is a good option for treatment of large ear keloids and can be combined with other treatment options, for example intralesional corticosteroids and application of a sheet of silicone gel.