A Unique Tripod Suspension and Stabilisation Technique for the Treatment of Nasal Bone Fracture: A Case Report

Abstract

Nasal bone fracture is more common because it is a prominent structure on the face. It can occur as an isolated injury or in combination with other soft tissue and bony facial injuries. While isolated fractures are more common, they can also be associated with fractures of the zygomatic-orbital-maxillary complex and the skull base. Typically, nasal bone fractures are treated with closed reduction or open reduction and fixation. This involves internal fixation using nasal packing and external fixation using plaster splinting. However, in this technique, we utilised an internal teflon splint and an external thermoplastic splint for the fixation of comminuted nasal bone fractures. One advantage of this technique is that it keeps the nostrils open, allowing for unobstructed breathing. Additionally, the internal splint helps lift the nasal bone back into its anatomical position. The present case report presents the management of a 40-year-old male patient who sustained nasal and maxillary dentoalveolar fractures as a result of a road traffic accident. The fractures were further managed using intranasal teflon splints, an external thermoplastic splint, and Kirschner’s wires. This splint pattern prevents displacement and promotes healing in the desired alignment. This technique employs a logical tripod arrangement of a rigid support system that incorporates all these elements into one interconnected unit, providing support, stability, and tension for optimal results. It focuses on the keystone area of the nose, which requires the most support.

Keywords

• external thermoplastic nasal splint
• internal teflon nasal splint
• keystone area