Correction of low or saddle nasal dorsum with a composite graft of fragmented conchal cartilage fixed to the perichondrium wrapped in mastoid fascia

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: In many cases, augmentation rhinoplasty is more difficult than reduction rhinoplasty. Solid dorsal grafts performed with costal cartilage have been widely used for dorsal augmentation; however, they are associated with high rates of revision. Thus, many authors began to use cartilage cut into cubes wrapped in fascia. The mastoid fascia, connected to the perichondrium of the auricular conchal cartilage can form a composite graft to augment the nasal dorsum, which is also a treatment option. The objective is to demonstrate the possibility of using fragmented auricular conchal cartilage fixed to its perichondrium and wrapped in mastoid fascia to form a composite graft for augmentation of the nasal dorsum. METHODS: This is a retrospective study of 9 patients who underwent operation between 2012 and 2016 at the Base Hospital of the Faculty of Medicine of São José do Rio Preto, in which the nasal dorsum was augmented with fragmented conchal cartilage fixed to its perichondrium and wrapped in the mastoid fascia. RESULTS: The patients were followed up for up 6 to 48 months. They were questioned about their satisfaction with the nasal procedure and hearing sensitivity, and provided a positive evaluation of the surgeons. CONCLUSION: The conchal cartilage seems a highly valuable alternative graft for nasal dorsum augmentation procedures. The technique of using cartilage wrapped in mastoid fascia seems to be an advantageous alternative when compared with those using cartilage wrapped in other fasciae: it has low morbidity and complications rates and can be a great option for saddle nose treatment.

Keywords

• rhinoplasty
• nasal acquired deformities
• nasal bone
• surgery, plastic
• nasal cartilages