Open and Closed Rhinoplasty

Is Piezosurgery Associated with Improved Patient Outcomes Compared to Conventional Osteotomy in Rhinoplasty? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of RCTs

Background: Rhinoplasty is a common plastic surgery procedure with evolving surgical techniques. This systematic review and meta-analysis compares the outcomes of piezosurgery versus conventional osteotomy in rhinoplasty. Methods: A comprehensive search of six databases yielded 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing piezosurgery (292 cases) to conventional osteotomy (338 cases) in rhinoplasty patients. The examined outcomes included postoperative edema, ecchymosis, complications, pain (using the Visual Analogue Scale-VAS), and operative time. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on the assessment timepoint, surgical approach, and outcome grade. The risk of bias was evaluated using the revised Cochrane tool. Results: Piezosurgery showed a significant reduction in the degree of postoperative edema (second and seventh postoperative days) and ecchymosis (second, fourth, and seventh postoperative days). The external approach in piezosurgery demonstrated greater benefits for both outcomes. Piezosurgery was associated with a significant reduction in overall complications, especially mucosal injuries, compared to conventional osteotomy, with no significant difference regarding postoperative hemorrhage. A significant reduction in pain scores and the need for analgesia was observed with piezosurgery. No significant difference was found in operative time. Conclusions: Piezosurgery offers significant benefits in patient outcomes, with similar operative time between both techniques. However, long-term investigations are still needed.

A Retrospective Study on the Reconstruction of Nasal Septal Mucosal Defects after Asian Rhinoplasty

BACKGROUND

Nasal septal mucosal defects following rhinoplasty in Asian patients are uncommon complications. However, the reconstruction of such defects presents a challenging task in plastic surgery. The aim of this study was to present comprehensive surgical strategies for the reconstruction of nasal septal mucosal defect after rhinoplasty.

METHODS

Thirteen cases presenting with nasal septal mucosal defects between January 2016 and October 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. The size, location, and severity of the defect as well as the extent of cartilage exposure were taken into consideration during evaluation, and surgical approaches were employed for repair accordingly. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using a questionnaire with visual analog scale (VAS) and nasal obstruction symptom evaluation scale (NOSE).

RESULTS

The average postoperative follow-up period in this study group was 10.15 months. Reconstruction of nasal septal mucosal defects resulted in successful treatment for all patients. There was no evidence of flap failure or nasal valve stenosis. All patients were satisfied with the reconstruction outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

The successful application of surgical techniques for nasal septal mucosal defects after rhinoplasty requires comprehensive consideration. The utilization of the retrograde-flow superior labial artery mucosal flap appears to be a secure, efficient, and effective technique for nasal septal mucosal defect reconstruction in rhinoplasty, particularly in cases with cartilage exposure.

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 .

Evaluating the therapeutic and reconstructive efficacy of flap transplantation techniques in managing nasal tissue deficiency resulting from post-rhinoplasty surgical infections

Rhinoplasty is a frequently performed aesthetic surgery with a high procedural volume. Despite the operational ease and safety profile of biocompatible materials such as silicone and inflatable prosthetics, postoperative complications like surgical site infections can lead to significant clinical challenges. These complications necessitate effective therapeutic and reconstructive interventions. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of different flap transplantation techniques for early treatment of post-rhinoplasty nasal tissue deficiencies. A retrospective study was conducted from May 2018 to May 2023, involving 38 patients divided into a control group receiving standard anti-infective treatment and an observation group undergoing early flap grafting procedures. Efficacy was evaluated using objective metrics-namely, nasal appearance, function and flap condition-each assessed through a 10-point scoring system, and subjective metrics such as patient satisfaction gauged through self-administered questionnaires. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 27.0. Both groups were statistically comparable in terms of demographics such as age, marital status and educational background. The observation group displayed significantly improved outcomes in terms of nasal aesthetics (mean score 7.92 ± 1.00), nasal function (mean score 8.47 ± 0.51) and flap condition (mean score 7.89 ± 1.12) compared to the control group. Flap transplantation techniques demonstrated superior therapeutic and reconstructive efficacy in the management of nasal tissue deficiencies arising from post-rhinoplasty surgical infections. These findings contribute to evidence-based recommendations for optimal clinical practice.

Limited Incision Rhinoplasty: An Approach for All Primary and Revision Cases

INTRODUCTION

Rhinoplasty was one of the most frequently performed aesthetic surgeries in the USA in 2022. Traditionally, the open approach has been preferred by the majority of surgeons often due to familiarity and ease of visualization. However, patient interest in closed and preservation rhinoplasty is driving a resurgence in the popularity of endonasal techniques. We present a series of 100 consecutive endonasal primary and revision rhinoplasty cases using bilateral isolated modified rim incisions.

METHODS

One-hundred consecutive patients underwent closed rhinoplasty via isolated modified rim incisions at a single-surgeon private practice. The senior author performs 100% endonasal rhinoplasty. A retrospective chart review was performed from 06/25/20 to 09/21/22. Information on demographics, complications, and need for revision was collected.

RESULTS

Eighty-four patients underwent primary rhinoplasty, 11 underwent secondary rhinoplasty, 4 underwent tertiary rhinoplasty, and 1 underwent quaternary rhinoplasty. Isolated modified rim incisions were used in all cases except in cases of septoplasty when a unilateral Killian incision was added, or in cases of lateral osteotomy when vestibular stab incisions were added. Post-operatively, six (6.0%) patients required revision, all of which were performed under local anesthesia.

CONCLUSION

Limited incision rhinoplasty is a reliable surgical approach that produces predictable results with a low revision rate. This technique is highly effective in minimizing soft tissue disruption to ensure safe, reliable, and effective outcomes in primary and revision rhinoplasty. It is an easier technique to learn compared to traditional endonasal and even arguably open rhinoplasty, thus lending itself to widespread adoption especially among novice rhinoplasty surgeons. 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 .

Rhinoplasty Surgical Technique for Nasal Dermoid Cyst Removal in Adult: Case Report

Nasal dermoid cyst is a rare benign lesion. The mainstay of treatment for a nasal dermoid cyst is surgical excision, which aims to remove the cyst and associated structures to prevent recurrence. We report a case of a 30-year-old man with nasal dermoid cyst, without intranasal or intracranial extension. The patient underwent open rhinoplasty technique for dermoid cyst excision. He had an uneventful postoperative recovery and was discharged well. The cyst and associated structure were successfully removed. There was no evidence of recurrence and complications postoperatively after 2 years of follow-up.

Video-Assisted Septo-rhinoplasty, the Future of Endonasal Rhinoplasty-A Technical Note

INTRODUCTION

Surgeons have sought to improve outcomes in rhinoplasty through innovative techniques. Although many publications illustrate the advantages of endoscopic septoplasty over conventional methods, few have evaluated the benefits of endoscopy for rhinoplasty. In this article, the authors meticulously describe their own technique that offers a sustainable alternative to open approach rhinoplasty, with high reproducibility and enhanced knowledge for young surgeons.

METHODS

The technique involves using video-assisted endoscopy for enhanced visibility and access. Various steps are performed, including hemitransfixion incision, septoplasty if necessary, dorsal reduction, and the development of endoscopic spreader flaps. Nasal tip surgery follows standard endonasal rhinoplasty techniques.

RESULTS

This technique has been successfully performed for years in primary and secondary rhinoplasties, resulting in improved aesthetic and functional outcomes without external scars. The endoscopic view enhances understanding for surgeons and residents, while preserving internal valve function and minimizing swelling. Patients express high satisfaction with the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Video-assisted endoscopic septo-rhinoplasty offers a valuable alternative, providing natural outcomes with improved visualization and reduced complications. It is applicable to various indications and demonstrates its effectiveness compared to traditional approaches. The advanced endoscopic guided septo-rhinoplasty technique combines the benefits of open approach rhinoplasty while avoiding its drawbacks.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. 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 .

Aesthetic Surgery Advice and Counseling from Artificial Intelligence: A Rhinoplasty Consultation with ChatGPT

BACKGROUND

ChatGPT is an open-source artificial large language model that uses deep learning to produce human-like text dialogue. This observational study evaluated the ability of ChatGPT to provide informative and accurate responses to a set of hypothetical questions designed to simulate an initial consultation about rhinoplasty.

METHODS

Nine questions were prompted to ChatGPT on rhinoplasty. The questions were sourced from a checklist published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the responses were assessed for accessibility, informativeness, and accuracy by Specialist Plastic Surgeons with extensive experience in rhinoplasty.

RESULTS

ChatGPT was able to provide coherent and easily comprehensible answers to the questions posed, demonstrating its understanding of natural language in a health-specific context. The responses emphasized the importance of an individualized approach, particularly in aesthetic plastic surgery. However, the study also highlighted ChatGPT's limitations in providing more detailed or personalized advice.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the results suggest that ChatGPT has the potential to provide valuable information to patients in a medical context, particularly in situations where patients may be hesitant to seek advice from medical professionals or where access to medical advice is limited. However, further research is needed to determine the scope and limitations of AI language models in this domain and to assess the potential benefits and risks associated with their use.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V

Observational study under respected authorities. 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 Difference in Scar-Related Quality of Life in Open Versus Closed Septorhinoplasty

INTRODUCTION

The open and closed techniques are the main surgical techniques to perform septorhinoplasty. Although the open technique offers a better view of the pertinent anatomy and facilitates surgical access, it creates an external scar that could affect patients' satisfaction and quality of life (QoL). This study aims to compare the open and closed techniques using the SCAR-Q patient-reported outcome measure.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we have included patients who had their nasal surgery one year ago, in the period between April 2020 and April 2021. The SCAR-Q assessment tool to study patients' satisfaction with appearance, symptoms, and psychological impact of open and closed septorhinoplasty techniques.

RESULTS

A total of 77 patients were included in this analysis. Of these, 39 (50.6%) patients underwent a closed septorhinoplasty, and 38 (49.4%) patients underwent an open approach. The mean (SD) age was 29.6 (8.1) years, and most patients were females (59.7%). The overall SCAR-Q questionnaire responses were very positive across all scales in our cohort, the median (IQR) scores were 91.0 (73.0-100.0) for the appearance scale, 89.0 (70.0-100.0) for the symptoms scale, and 100.0 (87.0-100.0) for the psychological impact scale. However, we have found no differences in SCAR-Q scores regarding appearance, symptoms, and psychological impact between open and closed septorhinoplasty.

CONCLUSION

We have found no significant differences in QoL between open and closed techniques of septorhinoplasty. Larger studies are needed to further validate this finding.

Closed Rhinoplasty: A Single Surgeon Experience of 238 Cases over 2 Years

Closed rhinoplasty is currently losing favour as a method of rhinoplasty reshaping procedure. Open rhinoplasties are usually performed by surgeons because of the greater degree of visualisation of the cartilages and bones within the nose that need to be reshaped. Because of the criticisms of closed rhinoplasty the senior author performed an audit of his outcomes to determine whether closed rhinoplasty still has a role to play in the armamentarium of the plastic surgeon. We conducted this study as a retrospective review of all closed rhinoplasty operations performed by a single surgeon over a two-year period (from 1st January 2016 to 31st December 2017). The operative technique is provided. An independent panel of 3 assessors (2 board certified consultant plastic surgeons and one lay member of the public) rated outcomes of the closed technique based on photographic series. Statistical analysis was performed using Cohen's Kappa and Friedman test. Additionally, the length of follow up period, revision rates, and post-operative complications (general and aesthetic) were examined. A total of 242 cases of rhinoplasty were performed (8 open and 234 closed rhinoplasty; 225 primary and 17 revision operations). The first consultant surgeon gave a score in a range from 4.2/5 to 4.9/5 with a mode of 4.8 and a mean score of 4.7/5. The second consultant surgeon gave a range of 4.1/5 to 4.9/5 with a mode of 4.4 and mean score of 4.3/5. The lay panel member scored the cases in a range from 4.4/5 to 5/5 with a mode of 4.8 and a mean score of 4.9/5. Cohen's coefficient was 0.72 showing substantial agreement across the panel. The complication rate for the recorded data was 0.8% with two cases of soft tissue infection treated with oral antibiotics. The results of this paper advocates the benefits of the closed approach in aesthetic rhinoplasty. Surgeons should appreciate that both open and closed approaches are complimentary. The favouring of a single approach is indicated in the scenarios discussed. The remaining cases seem to produce equivocal results and the choice of procedure should be based on patient anatomy, outcome aims, and the ability of a surgeon to perform their preferred technique.

Rhinoplasty Pre-Surgery Models by Using Low-Dose Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and 3D Printing

Rhinoplasty and surgical reconstruction of cartilaginous structures still remain a great challenge today. This study aims to identify an imaging strategy in order to merge the information from CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) acquisitions and build a 3D printed model true to the patient's anatomy, for better surgical planning. Using MRI, information can be obtained about the cartilage structures of which the nose is composed. Ten rhinoplasty candidate patients underwent both a low-dose protocol CT scan and a specific MRI for characterization of nasal structures. Bone and soft tissue segmentations were performed in CT, while cartilage segmentations were extrapolated from MRI and validated by both an expert radiologist and surgeon. Subsequently, a 3D model was produced in materials and colors reproducing the density of the three main structures (bone, soft tissue, and cartilage), useful for pre-surgical evaluation. This study has highlighted that the optimization of a CT and MR dedicated protocol has allowed to reduce the CT radiation dose up to 60% compared to standard acquisitions with the same machine, and MR acquisition time of about 20%. Patient-tailored 3D models and pre-surgical planning have reduced the mean operative time by 20 minutes.

The Merits of the External Rhinoplasty

The authors present their views on the merits of external rhinoplasty in the context of a renewed awareness of the endonasal approach. Why do we continue to perform rhinoplasty via an open approach? The benefits of this technique such as its unparalleled exposure, the opportunity for technical precision, and the ability to better preserve nasal function are thoroughly explored. The criticisms of this technique are presented and discussed. The authors thoughts on rhinoplasty as a whole are examined.

The Effect on Patient Satisfaction of the Postoperative Nasal Topographic, Demographic, and Functional Results of Open and Closed Septorhinoplasty Techniques

AIM

To evaluate the contribution to patient satisfaction of the newly reshaped topographic anatomy of the nose, demographic, and functional results in the postoperative period of septorhinoplasty surgery.

METHOD

A total of 370 patients applied with open and closed septorhinoplasty techniques for various reasons were grouped according to the postoperative Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation (ROE) Scale results; Group 1 (open rhinoplasty satisfied group, ROE ≥12 points, n:194), Group 2 (open rhinoplasty dissatisfied group, ROE <12 points, n:23), Group 3 (closed rhinoplasty satisfied group, ROE ≥12 points, n:137), Group 4 (closed rhinoplasty dissatisfied group, ROE <12 points, n:16). The groups were evaluated in respect of the effect on patient satisfaction of functional and demographic variables and satisfaction with the topographic outcome of the nose.

RESULTS

The effect of the topographic surgical results was evaluated on patient satisfaction. A correlation was determined between nasal topographic satisfaction and patient satisfaction (r:0.228, P = 0.009). In the subgroup analyses, the only factor among the topographic factors which had an effect on satisfaction was the nasal tip (r:0.187, P = 0.024). Although 30.7% (n:39) of patients dissatisfied with the surgery reported that they were not satisfied with the nasal base results, no correlation was determined between nasal base and satisfaction (r:0.091, P = 0.463). The strongest correlations of patient satisfaction were determined to be with subjective (NOSE score [r:0.530, P < 0.001]) and objective (high nasal resistance levels [r:0.579, P < 0.001]) functional results.

CONCLUSION

The 2 basic components of postoperative satisfaction with SRP surgery were shown to be functional healing and cosmetic outcomes. Of the surgical topographic results, nasal tip and nasal base were the parts determined to require the most attention.

Sublabial Approach to Tip Rhinoplasty: A Cadaver Model

OBJECTIVES

The main objective of this study was to investigate the utility of the sublabial approach in gaining proper exposure for tip rhinoplasty maneuvers in a cadaver model. Additional objectives included identifying types of grafts that can be placed sublabially and whether these methods can be translated successfully to human subjects.

METHODS

Ten (N = 10) fresh-preserved cadavers were dissected at our academic institution from August 18, 2019 through February 5, 2020. Photographs of the cadavers were taken with permission from the anatomy laboratory manager using an iPhone 10 (Apple Inc., Cupertino, CA). Standard rhinoplasty views were taken of all ten cadavers.

RESULTS

Grafts were harvested and designed from septal (80%), auricular (50%) and rib cartilage (40%). The division of depressor septi muscle was accomplished in all ten (100%) cadavers to address tip ptosis. Placement of the columellar strut and shield grafts resulted primarily in the improvement of nasal projection as well as rotation in all (100%) cadavers. Premaxillary augmentation was not always indicated but helped to improve an acute, retrodisplaced nasolabial angle in three (30%) cadavers. Lateral osteotomies via this approach addressed the nasal bony pyramid in all ten (100%) cadavers. The swinging door technique enabled correction of the caudal septum in six (60%) cadavers.

CONCLUSIONS

Several rhinoplasty techniques can be successfully performed on cadavers via the sublabial approach and we hope this work can be translated to human subjects.

Outcome-based Comparative Study to Examine the Correction of Columella Deformitiesfollowing Rhinoplasty

The columella is an underrepresented part of rhinoplasty. The objective of this study was to assess the outcome of columella correction following rhinoplasty and to assess any differences in the open and endonasal approach.

Methods

This is a retrospective study involving 65 rhinoplasty patients, who were divided into 2 groups depending on whether they had an open or endonasal approach. Fifteen patients underwent the open procedure, and 50 patients underwent the endonasal approach. Patients who underwent endonasal rhinoplasty were compared with open rhinoplasty patients in terms of their final outcome, with a focus on the columellar correction. The classification by Rohrich and Liu and Gunter's distance between the nasal axis and columella were used to assess the correction.

Results

The overall incidence of columellar correction was 90% in the endonasal group (45 of 50 patients) and 67% in the open approach group (10 of 15 patients); a comparison shows a P value of 0.043 (<0.05). An estimated 49 of 50 patients (98%) from the endonasal group saw a reduction in the nasal axis-columella distance when compared with the open rhinoplasty group, who saw a reduction in 12 of 15 patients (80%); statistical analysis shows a P value of 0.036 (<0.05). The quantitative reduction in this distance in all patients when compared between the 2 groups had a P value of <0.001, suggesting a greater overall reduction using the endonasal approach. This may be related to differences in distribution of the deformities within the 2 groups.

Conclusions

There is no standard way to correct the columella, but it is important to identify the deformity and the need to correct it. In our patients, we found comparable outcomes in achieving a satisfactory columella in the open and endonasal groups.

Closed Rhinoplasty with a Mushroom-Shaped Costal Cartilage Graft in East Asian Patients

BACKGROUND

The most challenging part of rhinoplasty is nasal tip management. For East Asian patients with a bulbous under projected nasal tip with thick skin, autologous cartilage is considered the gold-standard graft material to provide strong support to the nasal tip and effectively increase tip projection. The present study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of closed rhinoplasty with a mushroom-shaped costal cartilage graft in East Asian patients.

METHODS

From February 2018 to May 2019, 52 patients underwent rhinoplasty with a mushroom-shaped costal cartilage graft in our institution. Rhinoplasty was performed through a bilateral endonasal incision. Postoperatively, all patients were photographed and asked to complete a satisfaction survey online or by telephone.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 15.8 months (range 12-21 months). Twenty-four of 52 patients agreed to participate in this study. Postoperatively, the mean nasofrontal angle was 137.7 ± 3.7°, mean nasolabial angle was 94.1 ± 6.2°, mean nasal tip angle was 79.4 ± 5.2°, and mean columellar/lobular angle was 44.7 ± 2.4°. The mean tip projection/nasal length index was 0.53 ± 0.07, and the mean columellar/lobular length index was 1.21 ± 0.22. There were no prolonged functional complications. Most patients (23/24; 95.8%) were satisfied with the aesthetic results.

CONCLUSION

The present results suggest that the mushroom-shaped costal cartilage graft in closed rhinoplasty is a good choice for the correction of a bulbous under projected nasal tip.

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.

Reporting Outcomes and Outcome Measures in Open Rhinoplasty: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Comparative studies have shown little statistical difference in outcomes following rhinoplasty, demonstrating near equivalent results across all surgical techniques. Cross-study comparisons of these trials are difficult because variation in outcome reporting prevents statistical pooling and analysis.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to identify all outcomes and outcome measures used to evaluate postoperative results in rhinoplasty.

METHODS

An extensive computerized database search of MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed; all trials involving n ≥ 20 patients, aged 18 years and older undergoing a primary, open rhinoplasty procedure, were included for review.

RESULTS

Of the 3235 citations initially screened, 72 studies met the stated inclusion criteria. A total of 53 unique outcomes and 55 postoperative outcome measures were identified. Outcomes were divided into 6 unique domains: objective signs, subjective symptom severity, physical function related to activities of daily living, patient satisfaction, surgeon satisfaction, and quality of life. The identified outcome measures consisted of 5 nasal-specific, author-reported instruments; 5 nasal specific, patient-reported instruments; 5 patient-reported, generic instruments; and 40 author-generated instruments. Of the outcome measures identified, the Rhinoplasty Outcomes Evaluation, Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22, and FACE-Q were the only instruments to demonstrate adequate validity, reliability, and responsiveness to change in patients who underwent a rhinoplasty procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

There is heterogeneity in the outcomes and outcome measures employed to assess postsurgical outcomes following rhinoplasty. A standardized core outcome set is urgently needed to make it possible for future investigators to compare results of various techniques in rhinoplasty surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2

A Modified Closed-Open Approach as Part of a Graduated and Integrative Approach to Rhinoplasty

Introduction Open versus closed approach in rhinoplasty is a frequently debated topic in aesthetic plastic surgery. Although good results can often be achieved with either technique, both have unique advantages and disadvantages. In this investigation, we present our experiences of a modified closed-open approach that has been applied on 482 complex primary and secondary rhinoplasties. Three representative cases are described in more detail.

Materials and Methods The procedure begins as a closed approach through an intracartilaginous incision allowing cephalic trimming of the lateral crura, dorsal rasping, and/or excision. Patients requiring extensive nasal tip maneuvers are subjected to exposure of the alar cartilage framework through a transcolumellar/limited marginal incision. This provides not only adequate exposure of the alar cartilages but also easy access to the septum.

Conclusion In our hands, this approach is easy and expeditious. It requires less tip dissection, and therefore may avoid the prolonged postoperative edema that is often a consequence of open or extended closed tip delivery approaches.

Healing acceleration of mastoidectomy through the external auditory canal incisionless approach

PURPOSE

To evaluate a surgical procedure of canal wall-up mastoidectomy without incision of the canal which enables accelerated healing and enhances hearing outcome.

METHODS

A total of 79 patients were enrolled. A canal-incisionless technique was used in 37 patients undergoing canal wall-up/down mastoidectomy (CWU/DM), explo-mastoidectomy, and cochlea implantation as staged operation after obliteration of the mastoid, and canal incision was used in the remaining 42 patients as comparison group.

RESULTS

Preoperative and postoperative pure tone audiometry/word recognition score and postoperative status including the healing time and complications were analyzed. Healing time of the canal-incisionless procedure (2.7 weeks) was shorter than that of conventional mastoidectomy with canal incision (5.7 weeks). Complication rate of the canal-incisionless procedure was lower than that of canal incision approach, even though statistical meaningless.

CONCLUSION

Despite the small sample size of our study, in patients undergoing CWDM, explo-mastoidectomy, and cochlea implantation, more acceptable healing was achieved using the canal-incisionless technique than with the canal incision technique. CWU/DM without canal incision is useful to achieve optimal surgical view, eliminate pathology of the middle ear, and accelerate healing time.

Design of a combined cartilage graft crusher, morselizer and holder for use in rhinoplasty

A combined cartilage holder and crusher is described that allows the surgeon to hold, crush, morselize, and suture a single piece or stack of cartilage graft without letting it slip. The customized slit-shaped jaws allow adequate room for the suture needle, while the serrated surfaces hold the cartilage firmly. The use of this instrument is advocated primarily in rhinoplasty for manipulating and suturing a small cartilage graft or a stack of grafts. The use of this instrument may be extended to aesthetic or reconstructive cases where cartilage grafts need to be sutured or shaped, as in eyelid, ear, and nipple reconstruction.

Comparative Outcomes in Functional Rhinoplasty With Open vs Endonasal Spreader Graft Placement

IMPORTANCE

Spreader grafts are commonly used for nasal valve stenosis. There is debate among practitioners regarding the optimal approach for spreader graft placement.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine whether an endonasal spreader graft placement leads to equivalent postoperative outcomes using a standardized nasal obstruction symptom score and whether there is a significant difference in operative time between the 2 approaches.

DESIGN

A retrospective review of functional rhinoplasties by a single facial plastic surgeon over a 2-year period was conducted.

SETTING

Facial plastic surgery practice at a tertiary academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty patients with a single surgeon over a 22-month period with a minimum of 1-year follow-up were included in the study. Age, sex, and preoperative Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scores of patients were equivalent between the 2 groups. For time analysis, 56 of 107 patients were analyzed, with exclusion of patients undergoing combined procedures and autologous cartilage grafting from sites besides the nasal septum.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients who underwent functional rhinoplasty through either an open or an endonasal (closed) approach were compared. Preoperative approach decision was based on the need for cosmetic tip, dorsal, or anterior septal work, and all decisions were made before the development of this study. Main outcome measures were as follows: improvement in NOSE scores recorded preoperatively and at 1-year minimum postoperative follow-up as well as difference in operative times.

RESULTS

No significant difference (P = 0.92) was found between patients having open or endonasal spreader graft placement in NOSE score improvement. Open rhinoplasty was associated with significantly longer operative times (P < 0.001), and performance of additional maneuvers such as strut grafts, osteotomies, and dorsal hump reduction was not found to independently affect operative times significantly.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Spreader grafts can be placed through an endonasal or open approach with similar outcomes in a standardized measure. Open rhinoplasty is associated with prolonged operative times and therefore increased operative costs. In properly selected patients, endonasal spreader graft placement may lead to significant cost savings when open rhinoplasty is not otherwise indicated.

Does videoendoscopy provide three-dimensional vision in closed rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a common procedure in cosmetic surgery all over the world. Patients desire enhancement of their facial beauty by the correction of preexisting nasal deformities. Precisely performed operations lead to better results, and enhancing technical accuracy accordingly results in more successful outcomes. Endoscopy helps us visualize the closed parts of the body with the aid of an illuminated optical device. The objective behind the present case series was to bring the advantages of open and closed rhinoplasty together by using endoscopic vision systems. A total of 312 patients with unoperated nasal deformities from private practice were operated, and videoendoscopic closed rhinoplasty was performed on each patient. Postoperative patient satisfaction was assessed using the Rhinoplasty Outcome Score; the level of satisfaction was found to be excellent. In the present case series, it was hypothesized that trocar mobility under the skin flap allows virtual binocular vision that eventually leads to stereoptic depth perception. This allows virtual three-dimensional (3D) vision on the screen of the endoscope with a regular trocar. The mobility of the tip in the transverse axis created a virtual 3D appearance. Our experiences with videoendoscopic closed rhinoplasty are shared in this report.