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Absorbable plates maintain nasal length, projection when used with caudal septal extension grafts

Polydioxanone absorbable plates were found to be helpful in securing caudal septal extension grafts and maintaining nasal length and projection during primary and revision septorhinoplasty, according to researchers.

Of the 95 patients studied who had absorbable plates used for stabilization of caudal septal extension grafts (CSEGs), 73 underwent primary rhinoplasty and 22 underwent a revision procedure.

The researchers used the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) questionnaire to standardize and objectify the patients’ nasal obstructive symptoms both preoperatively and postoperatively. Additionally, imaging software was used to obtain preoperative and multiple successive postoperative nasal length and projection measurements. Follow-up ranged from 21 to 717 days, with follow-up lasting longer than 180 days in 24 patients.

Among the 95 patients included in the study, none were observed to have any absorbable plate-related complications, according to the researchers. Additionally, a comparison of preoperative and postoperative NOSE scores demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in all five categories assessing obstructive symptoms, with a mean change of 1.42 found for congestion, 1.56 for blocking or obstruction, 1.60 for breathing through the nose, 0.90 for trouble sleeping and 1.28 for breathing while exercising for the 50 patients with available data.

Nasal length and projection were maintained over time in the 24 patients with more than 180 days of follow-up, according to the researchers. The mean change in nasal length for this group was 0.64 mm and 0.26 mm for projection, indicating no significant change.

The researchers noted the absorbable plates were perforated to encourage fibrous ingrowth into the area between the CSEG and existing caudal septum. - by Abigail Sutton

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.