Chinese doctors reattached a severed ear, which had been preserved on the sole of the foot, back onto the head

In a landmark achievement in the history of medical science, surgeons at Shantou University Hospital in China have successfully reattached a woman’s severed ear after temporarily preserving it under her foot. This extraordinary procedure, believed to be the first of its kind globally, demonstrates an innovative approach to complex tissue reconstruction.

The patient, a woman in her mid-30s, suffered a horrific industrial accident in April 2025 that left her with a significant portion of her scalp and one ear completely severed. Alongside the ear, large areas of skin from her face and neck were torn, rendering conventional reattachment techniques impossible. She was rushed to Shantou University Hospital in critical condition, with the detached ear at risk of necrosis due to lack of blood supply.

Faced with these challenges, the hospital’s microsurgery unit, led by senior surgeon Qiu Shenqiang, devised a groundbreaking solution. The team temporarily implanted the severed ear under the sole of the patient’s foot, a location chosen for its rich vascular network. This innovative “pocket” technique ensured that blood flow to the ear remained viable, preserving the tissue until the scalp healed sufficiently for reattachment.

Over the course of several months, the ear remained under careful monitoring in the foot, maintaining circulation and avoiding infection. Once the patient’s head wounds had stabilised and the surrounding tissue was suitable, surgeons successfully removed the ear from the foot and performed a meticulous microsurgical reattachment to the original site on the head.

Postoperative reports indicate that the ear has healed completely, with full restoration of blood flow and tissue vitality. The patient is currently undergoing routine follow-up to monitor long-term functionality and cosmetic appearance.

This case marks a significant milestone in reconstructive surgery, highlighting the potential of creative microsurgical techniques in saving complex organs and tissues.

Key Details of the Procedure:

Medical experts have hailed this procedure as a “pioneering success,” and it is expected to influence future approaches to complex tissue reconstruction worldwide.