postauricular sulcus
Pronunciation: post-aw-RIK-you-lar SUL-kus
The natural groove behind the ear where the auricle meets the head, commonly used for surgical incision placement in otoplasty.
Full Definition
The postauricular sulcus is the anatomical depression or fold located posterior to the auricle where the ear meets the mastoid region of the temporal bone. This natural landmark is crucial in ear surgery, particularly otoplasty procedures for prominent ear correction. Surgeons frequently utilize this sulcus for incision placement because it provides excellent access to the ear cartilage while hiding surgical scars in a natural concavity. Understanding the depth and contour of this sulcus is important for both aesthetic and reconstructive ear surgery to achieve natural-appearing results and proper ear positioning.
Usage
Usage note: Single word 'postauricular'; 'sulcus' refers to the groove or depression.
In Context
- "The otoplasty incision was placed within the postauricular sulcus to minimize visible scarring." — Operative report
- "Deepening of the postauricular sulcus was noted three months following the ear pinning procedure." — Post-operative examination