Merck_stitch_method
Merck stitch method
Surgical procedure for pinning protruding ears
The Merck stitch method is a minimally invasive procedure for pinning protruding ears, developed by W. H. Merck.[1] The method belongs to the special types of ear pinning surgeries. In contrast to other variations of minimally invasive procedures[2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9] the stitch method does not use additional techniques from the traditional ear pinning surgeries (otoplasty). It belongs to the closed ear pinning surgeries because the ear is not cut open for the placement of the sutures. According to the experience of the author the Stitch Method is suitable for all protruding ears. The stitch method is the most frequently performed otoplasty among the minimally invasive methods.[citation needed]