The efficacy of steroids for edema and ecchymosis after Rhinoplasty: A meta-analysis

The Effects of Two Different Cold Application Times on Edema, Ecchymosis, and Pain After Rhinoplasty: A Randomized Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

This study was performed to determine the effects of different cold application times to the periorbital area after rhinoplasty on edema, ecchymosis, and pain.

DESIGN

A randomized clinical study.

METHODS

Patients were divided into two groups, and cold application was applied to one group for 4 hours and to the other for 48 hours. The cold application was applied with ice packs for 20 minutes every hour to the periorbital region in both groups. Data were collected with the Patient Information Form, Scoring Diagram for Edema, the Scoring Diagram for Ecchymosis, and the Visual Analogue Scale for Pain.

FINDINGS

Periorbital edema, eyelid ecchymosis, and pain were not significantly different between the two groups. The mean edema score of the 48-hour group was 0.87 ± 0.93, while the mean edema score of the 4-hour group was 0.70 ± 0.87 (P = .48) on the 2nd day. The mean ecchymosis score was found as 2.03 ± 1.12 in the 48-hour group and 2.10 ± 1.09 in the 4-hour group (P = .817). The mean pain score was 12.50 ± 17.40 in the 48-hour group and 13.00 ± 16.00 in the 4-hour group (P = .98).

CONCLUSIONS

The effects of 48-hour and 4-hour cold applications are similar. Cold application for 4 hours may be recommended to patients who undergo rhinoplasty, as it is more practical and easier to apply than the 48-hour practice.

Cosmetic Filler-Induced Vascular Occlusion: A Rising Threat Presenting to Emergency Departments

Vascular emergencies from cosmetic filler-induced vascular occlusion represent an iatrogenic etiology that poses a threat to patients, with sequelae that range from disfiguring skin necrosis to blindness and stroke. As cosmetic fillers continue to grow in popularity, the importance of early identification, triaging, and management of these rare but potentially disabling injuries has motivated efforts to educate the public and professional audiences. In this practice review article, we outline components of acute care pertaining to these injuries based on evolving practice guidelines and best evidence recommendations.

Comparing the efficacy of different steroids for rhinoplasty: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Rhinoplasty can cause tissue trauma and inflammatory responses. Edema and ecchymosis, especially on the face, accompanied by inflammation are common complications. The anti-inflammatory properties of steroids can reduce postoperative edema and ecchymosis.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to determine the most effective type of steroids for preventing complications related to rhinoplasty.

METHODS

The study was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The population of comprised patients who underwent rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty. Different types of steroids administrated intravenously during the perioperative period were compared. The primary outcome of postoperative edema and other outcomes were evaluated on postoperative day 1, 3, and 7. Random-effects model was performed. The means and standard deviations were extracted.

RESULTS

Eighteen randomized controlled trials were included. The network meta-analysis revealed that dexamethasone and methylprednisolone significantly reduced edema on postoperative day 1 compared with placebo. No significant differences between the effects of any of two types of steroids were noted.

CONCLUSION

At least one dose of intravenous steroid intervention is recommended during the perioperative period of rhinoplasty. However, in terms of reducing edema and ecchymosis, no significant differences were noted among dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and betamethasone.

Proposal for Perioperative Pharmacological Protocol for the Reduction in Early Complications in Orthorhinoseptoplasty: Five Years of Experience

Septorhinoplasty is a crucial intervention in functional and aesthetic facial surgery. Although rare and usually manageable, complications could lead to disfiguring consequences. There is no universal protocol for perioperative management in the literature. The aim of this article is to analyze the surgical complications in patients who underwent open rhinoseptoplasty and were treated in the perioperative period with the standardized protocol used in our department, in order to propose it as a standardized protocol for a more global application.

METHODS

The patients included underwent rhinoplasty between 2017 and 2022 and were managed with the same treatment protocol. Perioperative and intraoperative data, as well as possible complications, were collected.

RESULTS

A total of 129 patients were included, 73% of which reported either mild or no complications. Abnormal scar healing was the most frequent complaint (9%), followed by edema (6.2%), nasal dyspnea (3.9%), infection (2.3%), and bleeding (2.3%). No severe complications were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Our protocol appears to be effective in minimizing complications such as infection and bleeding, although it is very difficult to compare the results with the literature.

The Effect of Steroid and Mannitol Combination Treatment on Postoperative Rehabilitation of Multiple Metacarpal Bone Fractures

Background and Objectives: The expedient resolution of postoperative soft tissue edema is particularly important in hand surgery. Prolonged edema and pain become an obstacle to postoperative rehabilitation, delay return to daily life, and in severe cases, lead to a permanent decrease in range of motion. Based on the common physiology between postoperative hand swelling and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), we sought to determine if postoperative mannitol and steroid administration to multiple metacarpal bone fracture patients effectively reduces hand swelling and pain and is beneficial for hand rehabilitation. Materials and Methods: From March 2015 to February 2019, 21 patients who received closed pinning for multiple metacarpal fractures were included in a retrospective cohort study. The control group (n = 11) underwent a routine recovery, while the treatment group (n = 10) received dexamethasone and mannitol injections for five days postoperatively. Serial changes in the degree of pain and fingertip-to-palm distance (FPD) were measured in both groups. The duration from surgery to the initiation of rehabilitation and time to full grip was also compared. Results: Compared to the control, the treatment group showed a faster alleviation of pain scores from the postoperative fifth day (2.91 versus 1.80, p = 0.013), and faster recovery of FPD from postoperative two weeks (3.27 versus 1.90, p = 0.002). Time to physical therapy initiation (6.73 versus 3.80 days, p = 0.002) and full grip achievement (42.46 versus 32.70 days, p = 0.002) were also faster in the treatment group. Conclusions: The steroid-mannitol combination treatment for multiple metacarpal bone fracture patients in the acute postoperative phase promoted the reduction of hand edema and pain, leading to the earlier initiation of physical therapy, rapid improvement in joint motion, and faster achievement of full grip.

Comparison of the Effect of Injectable Tranexamic Acid and Inhaled Desmopressin in Controlling Bleeding and Ecchymosis in Open Rhinoplasty

Background

Bleeding during rhinoplasty surgery has a negative effect on the quality of surgery; so, it is important to reduce bleeding during rhinoplasty. We aimed to evaluate the effect of injectable tranexamic acid (TXA) and nasal spray of desmopressin (DDAVP) on reduction in intraoperative bleeding and ecchymosis after open rhinoplasty.

Methods

In a Randomized Clinical Trial ( RCT) prepared since 2020 to 2021 in Razi Hospital and Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran, Iran on 42 patients who underwent open rhinoplasty were divided into three groups. In the first group, TXA was injected one hour before surgery at a dose of 10 mg / kg with a placebo inhalation spray. In the second group, DDAVP was administered as a nasal spray at a dose of 40 mcg with a placebo injection. The third group received a placebo spray and placebo injection. All required data were gathered and analyzed.

Results

In TXA group and DDAVP groups, the volume of bleeding during surgery significantly (P=0.022) decreased compared to placebo group, also, the quality of the surgical field and the surgeon's satisfaction significantly (P=0.007) improved compared to the placebo group but not with each other. Unlike placebo group, there were no reports of postoperative bleeding in the TXA and DDAVP groups. Duration of surgery, ecchymosis on the day after surgery and coagulation tests before and after surgery were not significantly different in three groups.

Conclusion

Use of DDAVP and TXA can both reduce the amount of bleeding during surgery and postoperative bleeding in rhinoplasty and improve the quality of the surgical field and the surgeon 's satisfaction during surgery.

Complications Associated with Rhinoplasty: An Umbrella Review of Meta-analyses

BACKGROUND

An increasing number of studies have investigated the effect of various methods in avoiding complications in rhinoplasty. Our study aims to analyze the connections between various choices in rhinoplasty and the rate of multiple complications by summarizing results in related meta-analyses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Through Pubmed, MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Database were associated systematic reviews searched to gather and review the available evidence of different plans and health outcomes in rhinoplasty for this umbrella review.

RESULTS

The study included 14 systematic reviews with 128 meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials. Edema and ecchymosis were the two most investigated outcomes. The implementations of steroid, tranexamic acid, periosteal preservation, external approach in lateral osteotomy, and piezoelectric osteotomy were linked with significantly lower incidence of several complications. Multiple administration of steroids was found to be associated with fewer complications in a prolonged time.

CONCLUSIONS

With summarized evidence of complications related to rhinoplasty, this research can help surgeons to avert patients from suffering complications and optimize cosmetic outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

The effects of 5-degree, 10-degree and 20-degree reverse Trendelenburg positions on intraoperative bleeding and postoperative Edemea and ecchymosis around the eye in open rhinoplasty

PURPOSE

In this study, we investigated the effect of reverse Trendelenburg position (RTP), with five, ten, and twenty degrees, on intraoperative bleeding and postoperative edema and ecchymosis around the eye in open rhinoplasty operations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety patients undergoing open rhinoplasty were divided into three groups, 5° angle RTP (Group 5; n = 30), 10° angle RTP (Group 10; n = 30), and 20° angle RTP (Group 20; n = 30). After 3 min of preoxygenation, anesthesia was induced with 3 mg.kg^-1 propofol, 1 μg.kg^-1 fentanyl, and 0.6 mg/kg rocuronium for muscle relaxation. Maintenance of anesthesia was provided with a minimum alveolar concentration of 1-1.5 with sevoflurane, 1:1 O2/N2O. Hemodynamic variables, intraoperational bleeding, postoperative 1st, 3rd and 7th days ecchymosis and edema around the eyes of the patients were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

Edema changes on postoperative 1st, 3rd and 7th days and ecchymosis changes around the eyes on postoperative 1st and 3rd days in Group 20 were found significantly lower than Group 5 (p < 0.017). Besides, the change of ecchymosis on the postoperative 1st day was found significantly lower in Group 20 compared to Group 10 (p < 0.017). The amount of intraoperative bleeding and surgical field evaluation score were found to be significantly lower in Group 10 and Group 20 compared to Group 5 (p < 0.017).

CONCLUSION

We concluded that in open rhinoplasty surgeries, 20° degree RTP reduces intraoperative blood loss and provides a more bloodless surgical field, as well as reducing edema and ecchymoses around the eyes in the postoperative period.

The Effect of Subcutaneous Dexamethasone to Reduce Edema and Ecchymosis in Rhinoplasty Patients

Background

Rhinoplasty is one of the most common types of cosmetic surgery undertaken. In most rhinoplasty patients, an osteotomy is used to reshape the nasal pyramid. The most common complications following osteotomy are edema and ecchymosis. Edema and ecchymosis have a significant effect on a patients' satisfaction with surgery and their return to social activities. For this purpose, various methods have been used to reduce edema and ecchymosis, including intravenous injection of corticosteroids, cold compresses, and tranexamic acid.

Objective

To reduce edema and ecchymosis in rhinoplasty patients by administering a subcutaneous injection of dexamethasone and thereby prevent unwanted systemic side effects of corticosteroid treatments.

Method

We conduct a hospital-based nonrandomised study of rhinoplasty patients, with their informed consent treated over the course of one year. Dexamethasone was injected on one side of consenting patient's face immediately before surgery and the results were compared with the opposite side that was not injected. The face images of patients were taken on the front view on the first, third, seventh, and fourteenth days following the treatment. The grade of edema and ecchymosis encountered in each patient was determined by three ENT specialists. The degree of edema and ecchymosis was compared on the injected and noninjected sides and the findings were statistically analysed. The nonrandomised study considered 42 rhinoplasty patients. The mean age of patients was 27.9 years and their age ranged between 17 and 52 years. For 20 patients (47.6%), injection was performed on the right side, and for 22 patients (52.3%), injection was performed on the left side. Findings. The statistical analysis of patient outcomes reveals that a supraperiosteal injection of dexamethasone was not effective in reducing edema and ecchymosis after rhinoplasty.

Management of Unsatisfactory Postoperative Double Eyelid With Intralesional Corticosteroid Injection

Purpose: The present study was designed to observe the curative effect of early intralesional corticosteroid injection to treat unsatisfactory double eyelid.

Methods: This retrospective, observational study included 30 female patients (age 22–35 years) receiving intralesional corticosteroid injection after complaining about the unsatisfactory double eyelid post-transcutaneous upper eyelid blepharoplasty. The postoperative double eyelid anomalies included multiple folds, sunken eyelids, and severe postoperative eyelid edema. The evaluation of the clinical effect was based on the bilateral symmetry of the eyelid, the placement of the lid fold, the radian of the double eyelid, and the extent of the swelling and depression.

Results: Multiple folds were observed in 11 (36.67%) patients, sunken eyelids in 9 (30.00%) patients, and severe postoperative eyelid edema in 10 (33.33%) patients. Among them, 17 (56.67%) patients received one intralesional injection and experienced significant improvement in the eyelid, while 8 (26.67%) accepted another injection at 1 month after the first injection and achieved marked improvement. The remaining 5 (16.67%) patients were dissatisfied with the results and might need further repair surgery: 2 patients had multiple folds, 2 showed postoperative edema, and 1 presented sunken eyelids. None of the patients reported any adverse reactions.

Conclusion: Intralesional corticosteroid injection for the correction of the postoperative unsatisfactory double eyelid is safe and convenient, and provides a novel method for early intervention.

Is angular artery trauma seen frequently in lateral osteotomy and responsible for peri-orbital ecchymosis?

OBJECTIVE

This study was performed on fresh frozen cadavers to investigate the role of angular artery damage.

METHODS

Lateral osteotomies ('high-low-high' method) were carried out bilaterally, with a 4 mm guarded lateral osteotome, after the creation of a subperiosteal tunnel. Following completion of the lateral osteotomy, a skin incision was made in the midline dorsum. The dermis and subcutaneous tissues were carefully dissected, taking care not to damage the angular artery. Overlying tissues were cut and retracted to show the course of the angular artery.

RESULTS

The angular artery was not damaged in any of the cadavers. The angular artery was always lateral to the lateral osteotomy line.

CONCLUSION

The high-low-high lateral osteotomy does not damage or traumatise the angular artery. The ecchymosis and oedema are related to other factors.

Efficacy of Dexamethasone for Reducing Edema and Ecchymosis After Rhinoplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Rhinoplasty is one of the most challenging cosmetic surgical operations. The procedure has been known to precipitate higher levels of edema and ecchymosis in the periorbital and paranasal regions. The literature recommends the use of corticosteroids such as dexamethasone to alleviate these postoperative morbidities. In this review, we aim to provide a current state of evidence concerning the influence of dexamethasone together with rhinoplasty on intraoperative and postoperative morbidities.

METHODS

A systematic identification of the literature was performed according to PRISMA guidelines on four academic databases: MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE and CENTRAL. A meta-analysis compared the influence of dexamethasone and normal saline administered during rhinoplasty on the amount of intraoperative blood loss, postoperative edema and ecchymosis.

RESULTS

Out of 1045 records, ten articles including 374 participants (mean age: 25.8 ± 2.5 years) were included in this review. This systematic review presents a 1b level of evidence supporting the use of dexamethasone during rhinoplasty to reduce the amount of intraoperative blood loss, edema and ecchymosis as compared to normal saline. The meta-analysis reveals beneficial effects for dexamethasone interventions by demonstrating medium to large effect reduction of the amount of intraoperative blood loss (Hedge's g: - 0.69), mean edema score (- 1.09) and mean ecchymosis score (- 1.03) as compared to placebo groups using normal saline.

CONCLUSION

The current systematic review and meta-analysis recommend the administration of dexamethasone with rhinoplasty. The review reports beneficial effects of dexamethasone's administration as compared to normal saline for reducing the amount of intraoperative blood loss, postoperative edema and ecchymosis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Risk Factors for Reoperation in Patients Hospitalized for Odontogenic Infections

PURPOSE

One of the most common adverse events after treatment of severe odontogenic infections is the need for a second procedure. The identification of risk factors for reoperation could help surgeons predict the need for reoperation or even tailor treatment to avoid this complication altogether. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors associated with reoperation in patients hospitalized with odontogenic infections.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We designed a retrospective cohort study from an eligible population of all patients treated at our institution for an odontogenic infection with incision and drainage under general anesthesia from August 1, 2015, to June 30, 2019. The primary outcome variable was a return to the operating room because of treatment failure. The potential predictor variables included demographic characteristics, history or physical examination findings from admission, admission laboratory values, initial computed tomography results, and medications provided during treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using the χ² test and logistic regression, and from these results, a multiple logistic regression model was created.

RESULTS

A total of 223 patients were included in the study. Men comprised 50.7% of the study population, and the average age was 38.9 ± 13.3 years. The mean number of involved spaces was 2.6 ± 1.7 spaces. Reoperation was performed in 25 patients (11.2%). In the adjusted model, an increased number of involved spaces (odds ratio [OR], 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3 to 2.7) and increased age (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.004 to 1.09) were associated with increased odds of reoperation, and antibiotic therapy with a penicillin-type antibiotic (OR, 0.1; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.5) and dexamethasone use (OR, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.8 to 0.98) were negatively associated with reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

Further studies could be directed at determining whether certain timing or dosing regimens of dexamethasone could be helpful in reducing adverse outcomes in patients with odontogenic infections or determining feasible strategies when penicillin allergies are reported.

Systemic steroid application for treatment of edematous anastomotic stenosis following delta-shaped anastomosis in laparoscopic distal gastrectomy: a case report

Background

Delta-shaped anastomosis is a common method of intracorporeal gastroduodenostomy in totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy. One common postoperative complication of this procedure is anastomotic stenosis, and endoscopic balloon dilatation is a major remedy for such complications. Other treatment strategies are necessary to manage unsuccessful endoscopic balloon dilatation.

Case presentation

We present a case where systemic steroid treatment was applied in sustained anastomotic stenosis after endoscopic balloon dilatation. We performed delta-shaped anastomosis in laparoscopic distal gastrectomy to treat early-stage gastric cancer in a patient. The patient experienced abdominal pain post-surgery; subsequent investigation revealed edematous anastomotic stenosis. The stenosis sustained even after endoscopic balloon dilatation and local steroid injection. Consequently, we applied systemic steroid treatment.

Conclusion

Systemic steroid treatment improved the stenosis and no recurrence was observed. These results suggest that systemic steroid application could be useful to treat anastomotic stenosis.

Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses Published in High-Impact Otolaryngology Journals

OBJECTIVE

To assess the methodological quality of intervention-focused systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) published in high-impact otolaryngology journals.

DATA SOURCES

Ovid Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library.

REVIEW METHODS

A comprehensive search was performed for SR and MA citations from 2012 to 2017 in the 10 highest impact factor otolaryngology journals. Abstracts were screened to identify published manuscripts in which the authors indicated clearly that they were performing an SR or MA. Applying a modified typology of reviews, 4 reviewers characterized the review type as SR, MA, or another review type. A simplified version of the AMSTAR 2 (A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2) tool was used to assess the reporting and methodological quality of the SRs and MAs that were focused on interventions.

RESULTS

Search and abstract screening generated 499 manuscripts that identified themselves as performing an SR or MA. A substantial number (85/499, 17%) were review types other than SRs or MAs, including 34 (7%) that were literature reviews. In total, 236 SRs and MAs focused on interventions. Over 50% of these SRs and MAs had weaknesses in at least 3 of the 16 items in the AMSTAR 2, and over 40% had weaknesses in at least 2 of the 7 critical domains. Ninety-nine percent of SRs and MAs provided critically low confidence in the results of the reviews.

CONCLUSION

Intervention-focused SRs and MAs published in high-impact otolaryngology journals have important methodological limitations that diminish confidence in the results of these reviews.

Preoperative Tranexamic Acid for Treatment of Bleeding, Edema, and Ecchymosis in Patients Undergoing Rhinoplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Importance

Evidence has emerged on the efficacy of tranexamic acid to control blood loss and postoperative complications after rhinoplasty.

Objective

To investigate the results of tranexamic acid use to reduce intraoperative bleeding, postoperative eyelid edema, and periorbital ecchymosis in rhinoplasty.

Data Sources and Study Selection

For this systematic review of randomized clinical trials, searches were performed in PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, SCOPUS, Science Direct, Google Scholar, OpenThesis, and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to December 23, 2017. Key words included tranexamic acid, rhinoplasty, and nasal surgical procedures. The following elements were used to define eligibility criteria: (1) population: patients undergoing rhinoplasty surgery; (2) intervention and controls: tranexamic acid vs placebo solution or no-treatment control group; (3) outcomes: intraoperative bleeding, postoperative eyelid edema and periorbital ecchymosis, and thromboembolic events; and (4) study type: randomized clinical trials.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two reviewers extracted data and assessed study quality according to the Cochrane guidelines for randomized clinical trials. Treatment effects were defined as weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% CIs. The strength of evidence was analyzed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation rating system.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Intraoperative bleeding, postoperative eyelid edema and periorbital ecchymosis. To calculate the effect sizes, means and SDs were obtained for each study group and outcome of interest.

Results

Five studies comprising 276 patients were included in the systematic review: 177 patients (64.1%) were women, and mean age was 26.8 (range, 16-42) years. Four studies comprising 246 patients estimated the amount in intraoperative bleeding as a primary outcome and were included in the meta-analysis. Eyelid edema and ecchymosis were evaluated as outcomes in 2 studies. Tranexamic acid was associated with reduced bleeding during rhinoplasty was found (WMD, -42.28 mL; 95% CI, -70.36 to -14.21 mL), with differences (P = .01) between oral (WMD, -61.70 mL; 95% CI, -83.02 to -40.39 mL; I2 = 0%) and intravenous (WMD, -23.88 mL; 95% CI, -45.19 to -2.58 mL; I2 = 56%) administration. Eyelid edema and ecchymosis scores in patients receiving tranexamic acid were significantly lower compared with the control group within the first postoperative week: lower eyelid edema, WMD, -0.76; 95% CI, -1.04 to -0.49 and lower eyelid ecchymosis, WMD, -0.94; 95% CI, -1.80 to -0.08. No cases of thromboembolic events were reported.

Conclusions and Relevance

Current available evidence suggests that preoperative administration of tranexamic acid is safe and may reduce intraoperative bleeding as well as postoperative eyelid edema and ecchymosis in patients undergoing rhinoplasty.

Greater palatine canal injections reduce operative bleeding during endoscopic sinus surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The use of greater palatine canal (GPC) injections of a local anesthetic and a vasoconstrictor to decrease surgical bleeding during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is controversial. We investigated the role of a preoperative GPC injection to minimize intraoperative bleeding during ESS in patients with chronic sinusitis through a meta-analysis of the relevant literature.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane database.

REVIEW METHODS

We screened the relevant literature published before May of 2018. Five articles that compared the pre-operative GPC injection (treatment group) with a placebo or no treatment (control group) were included for this analysis of the outcomes, which included an endoscopic grade of nasal bleeding and intraoperative hemodynamic stability during ESS.

RESULTS

The endoscopic grade in the treatment group was significantly reduced when compared with the control group. No significant adverse effects were reported in the enrolled studies. The subgroup analyses of these results compared the concentrations of adrenalin (1:80,000 or 1:100,000), and adrenalin 1:80,000 showed significant effects on intraoperative bleeding when compared to adrenalin 1:100,000.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that GPC injections of local anesthesia with 1:80,000 adrenaline for ESS effectively reduced intraoperative bleeding. Additionally, this procedure showed no significant adverse effects, such as hemodynamic instability. However, the standardized dosing needs further investigation and more trials.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Ia.

Venoplant Effect in the Management of the Post-operative Oedema in Plastic Surgery: Results of a Randomized and Controlled Clinical Trial

Background

Post-operative oedema and ecchymosis represent early post-operative complications, impacting negatively on the final aesthetic outcome of each surgical procedure. In particular, such complications are very frustrating for patients and—sometimes—are difficult to be managed by surgeons. Several strategies are available for managing oedema, although some side effects have been reported. A new promising compound for the management of oedema is Venoplant, and this study aims to assess its effectiveness in decreasing post-operative oedema.

Methods

Patients were randomly allocated for receiving three different treatments: (1) Venoplant tablets and Venoplant gel; (2) only Venoplant tablets; and (3) not treated with Venoplant. The aesthetical outcome has been evaluated using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), compiled by both patient and clinician. The GAIS scale was administered several times: the day following the surgical procedure (T0) after 3 days (T1), after 7 days (T2), after 15 days (T3) and after 1 month (T4).

Results

Forty-three patients participated in the study. According to patient’s evaluations, at T0 in Group 1 and in Group 2 a significant statistical difference was found compared to the control group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively). Over time, a significant reduction in swelling and ecchymosis was reported by patients treated with Venoplant (tablets alone or in combination with gel) compared to the control group. According to the physician’s assessment, during the different time points of evaluation, a significant reduction in post-operative oedema in Group 1 and in Group 2 compared to the control group was found.

Conclusion

Venoplant represents a valid therapeutic strategy for the management of post-operative oedema, guaranteeing a good level of patient satisfaction, in the absence of common side effects which are often associated with other therapies.

Level of Evidence I

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Aerosolized Fibrin Sealant Is Effective for Postoperative Edema and Ecchymosis in Open Rhinoplasty Without Osteotomy

PURPOSE

Fibrin sealant (FS) was approved as a hemostatic agent, sealant, and adhesive by the Food and Drug Administration in 1998. Our study sought to determine whether FS also reduced edema and pain in rhinoplasty without osteotomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a prospective randomized trial involving patients who underwent open rhinoplasty without osteotomy. The patients were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: those treated with aerosolized FS (FS group) and those not treated (control group). The effect of FS on edema of the eyelid, edema of the dorsum and tip of the nose, and periorbital ecchymosis was separately rated postoperatively using a scale of 0 to 4 or 0 to 3. Postoperative pain was evaluated using questionnaires quantified with a visual analog scale. The Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon tests were used to compare parameters between the groups.

RESULTS

A total of 41 patients were included in this study. The FS group (n = 20) consisted of 13 male and 7 female patients with a mean age of 34.8 ± 5.8 years. The control group (n = 21) consisted of 15 male and 6 female patients with a mean age of 32.4 ± 4.8 years. There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups with respect to age, gender, or combined surgical techniques (P > .05). Aerosolized FS significantly reduced not only ecchymosis and swelling in the periorbital area but also edema of the nasal dorsum (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Aerosolized FS can be effective for reducing eyelid edema, dorsal edema, and periorbital ecchymosis after open rhinoplasty. FS may serve as an adhesive for minimizing dead space by promoting adherence of the skin flap and as a hemostatic agent in reducing the amount of postoperative bleeding by sealing capillary vessels.

Comparison of the Effect of Dexamethasone and Tranexamic Acid, Separately or in Combination on Post-Rhinoplasty Edema and Ecchymosis

BACKGROUND

Dexamethasone and tranexamic acid are used to decrease post-rhinoplasty periorbital edema and ecchymosis. We compared the impact of each medication separately or in combination in this regard.

METHODS

A prospective, randomized triple-blinded study was undertaken on 60 patients who underwent primary open rhinoplasty. They were divided into four groups: Group D (n = 15) received 8 mg dexamethasone, group T (n = 15) received 10 mg/kg tranexamic acid, group DT (n = 15) received both 8 mg dexamethasone and 10 mg/kg tranexamic acid, and group P (n = 15) received neither medication and served as the placebo control group. The medications were given intravenously (IV) 1 h before and three doses every 8 h postoperatively. Digital photographs were taken on the first, third and seventh postoperative days. One expert examiner blinded to the study evaluated the periorbital edema and ecchymosis on a scale of 0-4. Periorbital edema and ecchymosis were examined in all groups.

RESULTS

In group D, group T and group DT, periorbital edema and ecchymosis ratings were significantly lower compared with the control group (p < 0.01). No statistically significant difference was seen in preventing or decreasing both periorbital edema and ecchymosis among group D, group T and group DT.

CONCLUSION

Tranexamic acid and dexamethasone, separately or in combination, had similar effects in reducing periorbital edema and ecchymosis in open rhinoplasty. Combined application did not show a significantly higher beneficial effect in this regard.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Clinical Practice Guideline: Improving Nasal Form and Function after Rhinoplasty

Objective Rhinoplasty, a surgical procedure that alters the shape or appearance of the nose while preserving or enhancing the nasal airway, ranks among the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the United States, with >200,000 procedures reported in 2014. While it is difficult to calculate the exact economic burden incurred by rhinoplasty patients following surgery with or without complications, the average rhinoplasty procedure typically exceeds $4000. The costs incurred due to complications, infections, or revision surgery may include the cost of long-term antibiotics, hospitalization, or lost revenue from hours/days of missed work. The resultant psychological impact of rhinoplasty can also be significant. Furthermore, the health care burden from psychological pressures of nasal deformities/aesthetic shortcomings, surgical infections, surgical pain, side effects from antibiotics, and nasal packing materials must also be considered for these patients. Prior to this guideline, limited literature existed on standard care considerations for pre- and postsurgical management and for standard surgical practice to ensure optimal outcomes for patients undergoing rhinoplasty. The impetus for this guideline is to utilize current evidence-based medicine practices and data to build unanimity regarding the peri- and postoperative strategies to maximize patient safety and to optimize surgical results for patients. Purpose The primary purpose of this guideline is to provide evidence-based recommendations for clinicians who either perform rhinoplasty or are involved in the care of a rhinoplasty candidate, as well as to optimize patient care, promote effective diagnosis and therapy, and reduce harmful or unnecessary variations in care. The target audience is any clinician or individual, in any setting, involved in the management of these patients. The target patient population is all patients aged ≥15 years. The guideline is intended to focus on knowledge gaps, practice variations, and clinical concerns associated with this surgical procedure; it is not intended to be a comprehensive reference for improving nasal form and function after rhinoplasty. Recommendations in this guideline concerning education and counseling to the patient are also intended to include the caregiver if the patient is <18 years of age. Action Statements The Guideline Development Group made the following recommendations: (1) Clinicians should ask all patients seeking rhinoplasty about their motivations for surgery and their expectations for outcomes, should provide feedback on whether those expectations are a realistic goal of surgery, and should document this discussion in the medical record. (2) Clinicians should assess rhinoplasty candidates for comorbid conditions that could modify or contraindicate surgery, including obstructive sleep apnea, body dysmorphic disorder, bleeding disorders, or chronic use of topical vasoconstrictive intranasal drugs. (3) The surgeon, or the surgeon's designee, should evaluate the rhinoplasty candidate for nasal airway obstruction during the preoperative assessment. (4) The surgeon, or the surgeon's designee, should educate rhinoplasty candidates regarding what to expect after surgery, how surgery might affect the ability to breathe through the nose, potential complications of surgery, and the possible need for future nasal surgery. (5) The clinician, or the clinician's designee, should counsel rhinoplasty candidates with documented obstructive sleep apnea about the impact of surgery on nasal airway obstruction and how obstructive sleep apnea might affect perioperative management. (6) The surgeon, or the surgeon's designee, should educate rhinoplasty patients before surgery about strategies to manage discomfort after surgery. (7) Clinicians should document patients' satisfaction with their nasal appearance and with their nasal function at a minimum of 12 months after rhinoplasty. The Guideline Development Group made recommendations against certain actions: (1) When a surgeon, or the surgeon's designee, chooses to administer perioperative antibiotics for rhinoplasty, he or she should not routinely prescribe antibiotic therapy for a duration >24 hours after surgery. (2) Surgeons should not routinely place packing in the nasal cavity of rhinoplasty patients (with or without septoplasty) at the conclusion of surgery. The panel group made the following statement an option: (1) The surgeon, or the surgeon's designee, may administer perioperative systemic steroids to the rhinoplasty patient.

Osteotomies Demystified

Osteotomies are critical techniques in rhinoplasty. There are a variety of approaches, trajectories, and tools used with no widely standardized classification or nomenclature. Percutaneous osteotomies are gaining in popularity, and picture framing the nasomaxillary bone is crucial for predictable fracture and reproducible results. This is best accomplished with medial, lateral, and transverse osteotomies. Intermediate osteotomies are used less frequently, but provide more mobility. With a detailed understanding of anatomy and a thorough approach to nasal osteotomies, the contour and function of the bony vault can be reshaped with a successful outcome for both the surgeon and patient.

Effect of Postrhinoplasty Taping on Postoperative Edema and Nasal Draping: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Edema persists for months after rhinoplasty. Numerous modalities have been described to counteract postoperative edema.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of postrhinoplasty taping (PRT) on nasal edema and nasal draping.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

In this randomized clinical trial, 57 patients undergoing rhinoplasty at a tertiary reference center from August 1, 2014, to January 31, 2015, were assigned to a control group or to 2- or 4-week PRT groups. Baseline nasal thickness was measured with ultrasonography at the nasion, rhinion, supratip, and tip, and mean nasal skin thickness (MNST) was calculated. Participants in each group were categorized by the baseline MNST measurement from the lowest to greatest MNST; those in the upper half were categorized as having thick skin; those in the lower half, thin skin. The control group underwent no PRT after the removal of external packing. Patients in the 2- and 4-week PRT groups received additional taping during the allocated time. Data were collected from August 1, 2014, to June 31, 2015. Follow-up was completed on June 31, 2015, and data were analyzed from July 1 to August 1, 2015.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Postoperative measurements of MNST were performed at the end of weeks 1, 3, and 5 and month 6.

RESULTS

Of the 57 total patients (33 male and 24 female patients; mean [SD] age, 30.0 [11.7] years), 17 were in the 2-week PRT group; 20, the 4-week PRT group; and 20, the control group. Compared with the control group, 4-week PRT had a significant effect on the supratip (P = .001). Comparisons of MNST with the control group revealed significant effects of 2-week (P = .02) and 4-week (P = .007) PRT. The effect on the tip was not significant (P = .052). Postrhinoplasty taping had no effect in thin-skinned patients. Comparison among thick-skinned patients revealed a significant effect on the MNST (P = .01) and the rhinion (P = .02) but not the tip (P = .06) and supratip (P = .07).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Postrhinoplasty taping helps the skin envelope to compress to the underlying framework and decrease postoperative edema. The procedure can be used particularly in thick-skinned patients, in whom skin draping and nasal refinement is crucial to the surgical outcome.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

1.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT02626585.

Evidence and evidence gaps in therapies of nasal obstruction and rhinosinusitis

Therapeutic decisions in otorhinolaryngology are based on clinical experience, surgical skills, and scientific evidence. Recently, evidence-based therapies have gained increased attention and importance due to their potential to improve the individual patient's treatment and their potential at the same time to reduce treatment costs. In clinical practice, it is almost impossible to stay ahead of the increasing mass of literature and on the other hand critically assess the presented data. A solid scientific and statistical knowledge as well as a significant amount of spare time are required to detect systematic bias and other errors in study designs, also with respect to assessing whether or not a study should be part of an individual therapeutic decision. Meta-analyses, reviews, and clinical guidelines are, therefore, of increasing importance for evidence-based therapy in clinical practice. This review is an update of the availability of external evidence for the treatment of nasal obstruction and rhinosinusitis. It becomes evident that both groups of diseases differ significantly in the availability of external evidence. Furthermore, it becomes obvious that surgical treatment options are normally based on evidence of significantly lower quality than medical treatment options.

Interventions to Decrease Postoperative Edema and Ecchymosis after Rhinoplasty: A Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Today, minimally invasive procedures are becoming more popular because of the fast recovery. Rhinoplasty is a common facial plastic surgery procedure that can be associated with significant postoperative morbidities, especially periorbital edema and ecchymosis. The aim of this review is to summarize the results of published literature that studied interventions that decrease postoperative edema and ecchymosis after rhinoplasty, and provide evidence-based strategies for surgeons to incorporate into practice.

METHODS

A systematic review of the PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases was performed to investigate interventions studied to decrease postoperative edema and ecchymosis after rhinoplasty. After inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, articles were grouped into one of the following categories: corticosteroids, other medications and herbal supplements, interventions to decrease intraoperative bleeding, other postoperative interventions, and surgical techniques.

RESULTS

A total of 50 articles were included for review. Fourteen articles studied corticosteroids exclusively, whereas another 10 articles reviewed other medications and herbal supplements. Nine articles evaluated methods to decrease intraoperative bleeding during rhinoplasty, and four articles studied postoperative interventions to decrease edema and ecchymosis. Thirteen articles studied various surgical techniques to decrease postoperative morbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a consensus within the literature that steroids, intraoperative hypotension, intraoperative cooling, and head elevation postoperatively decrease postoperative edema and ecchymosis, whereas nasal packing and periosteal elevation before osteotomy increased these postoperative morbidities. Studies of herbal supplements may be incorporated into practice with minimal risk to the patient. More studies must be performed before recommending an external or internal approach to lateral osteotomy.

Topical Application of Arnica and Mucopolysaccharide Polysulfate Attenuates Periorbital Edema and Ecchymosis in Open Rhinoplasty: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Study

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of local arnica and mucopolysaccharide polysulfate treatment on the regression of postoperative edema and ecchymosis in patients who have undergone open technique rhinoplasty.

METHOD

One hundred eight patients were included in the study. Participants were randomized into three groups, all of whom had undergone rhinoplasty. Group 1 (n = 36) received postoperative arnica cream treatment, and group 2 (n = 36) received postoperative mucopolysaccharide polysulfate cream treatment. Group 3 (n = 36, control group) consisted of patients who received no postoperative local treatments. Patients were evaluated for 24 hours on days 2, 5, 7, and 10 after the operation. For the evaluation of postoperative edema and ecchymosis, a scale ranging from 0 to 4 was used, and the groups were compared.

RESULTS

In groups 1 and 2, postoperative ecchymosis was significantly less than in the control group during postoperative days 1, 5, and 7 (p < 0.005). The regression of the edema was also more rapid in groups 1 and 2 than in the control group during evaluations on postoperative days 1, 5, and 7 (p < 0.005). Neither edema nor ecchymosis was significantly different between groups 1 and 2 (p > 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

The authors' results suggest that a rapid regression of edema and ecchymosis may be achieved by local treatments of arnica and mucopolysaccharide polysulfate cream. In addition, there are no significant differences between these two treatment regimens.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, II.

Comparison of the Effects of Total Nasal Block and Central Facial Block on Acute Postoperative Pain, Edema, and Ecchymosis After Septorhinoplasty

BACKGROUND

Pain, ecchymosis, and edema are major postoperative transient complications of septorhinoplasty procedures. They increase the patient's anxiety and decrease satisfaction levels as well as extend recovery time in the early postoperative period. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of total nasal block (TNB) and central facial block (CFB) on postoperative pain, edema, and ecchymosis.

METHODS

A total of 60 consecutive patients enrolled in this study and were divided into three groups as Controls (n = 20), TNB (n = 20), and CFB (n = 20). The two block methods mentioned above were performed at both the beginning and end of the surgery in the TNB and CFB groups. The Control group was not subjected to any block methods. Pain, edema, and ecchymosis score results according to the three scales were recorded postoperatively after 24 h, and on days 2, 5, 7, and 10. Results were analyzed statistically.

RESULTS

Of all patients, 28 were male and 32 were female. Ages were between 18 and 52 years (mean = 26.3 years). Pain, edema, and ecchymosis scores were significantly lower in the TNB and CFB groups than in the Control group. Additionally, there was a significant difference between the TNB and CFB groups in terms of pain and edema at postoperative 24 h and on day 2. Ecchymosis scores were lower in the CFB group than in the TNB group at 24 h and on days 2 and 5 after the operation.

CONCLUSION

Both TNB and CFB decreased postoperative pain, edema, and ecchymosis in septorhinoplasty. However, CFB was more effective than TNB in terms of pain, edema, and ecchymosis relief after septorhinoplasty procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

The use of nasal packing post rhinoplasty: does it increase periorbital ecchymosis? A prospective study

Background

Periorbital edema and ecchymosis following rhinoplasty is disturbing for both the patients and their surgeons. The study aim was to determine whether nasal packing after lateral osteotomies in rhinoplasty surgery increases the risk of periorbital ecchymosis post-operatively.

Methods

This was a prospective self-controlled single-blinded study. Seventy four patients who underwent rhinoplasty with bilateral lateral osteotomies by a single surgeon were enrolled in the study. Nasal cavity packing for one side was done while the other side was left unpacked. Periorbital ecchymosis was evaluated by the operating surgeon and a separate surgeon who is unaware of the packing side separately on the first, fourth and seventh day post-operatively. A 4-grade scale was utilized to assess the ecchymosis with grade 4 being the most severe.

Results

Nasal packing was found to significantly increase the severity and duration of periorbital ecchymosis post rhinoplasty. While no difference was observed between the packed and unpacked sides on the first post-operative day, significant difference was noted on the 4th day (mean score 2.36 and 1.15 for the packed and unpacked sides, respectively) and on the 7th day after surgery in favor of the unpacked side (score 1.24 and 0.61 for the packed and unpacked sides, respectively).

Conclusion

We advise against the routine use of nasal packing in rhinoplasty unless necessary as it contributes to worsen the periorbital ecchymosis from lateral osteotomies and thereby increases the patients’ “down time” after surgery.