Osseous-Cartilaginous Spreader Graft and Nasal Framework Reconstruction

Revision rhinoplasties and saddle nose deformities usually require grafting for reconstruction. Between January 1, 2000, and January 1, 2017, autologous rib grafts were used in 127 secondary and tertiary rhinoplasty patients [(57/127 females) and (70/127 males)]. Osseous-cartilaginous rib grafts (OCRGs) were divided into three parts (i.e., 1/3 upper peripheral, 1/3 central, and 1/3 lower peripheral). The harvested OCRGs were also shaped as vertical strips using a number 11 scalpel blade. These OCRGs were shaped to form the L-strut cartilaginous graft (LSCGs), osseous-cartilaginous spreader grafts (OCSGs), osseous-cartilaginous onlay grafts, nasal valve grafts (NVGs), and lower lateral cartilaginous grafts (LLCGs). The upper peripheral portion of the rib was usually used as an onlay graft for dorsal reshaping. The shape of this part was minimally convex after being cut from the main graft, and the convex shape was very appropriate for use as an onlay graft. The middle portion of the graft that consisted of the osseous and cartilaginous structure was used for the OCSGs. The middle portion of the graft that contained only cartilage was used for the LSCGs, NVGs, and LLCGs. OCRGs were used for the dorsal, alar, septal, upper lateral, and columellar struts for all patients. OCSGs were used for all of the septal grafts to provide further stability. In the nasal valve failure patients, the rib cartilage was fixed onto the lower lateral and upper lateral cartilage and was sutured using polyglactin to improve nasal valve function. One edge of the graft was sutured over the septum, and the other edge was positioned against the maxillary crest to allow for air flow at the nasal valve. After an OCSG was sutured to the septum, a flat and smooth dorsum was shaped before the dorsal onlay graft was placed and fixed. The bone fragments of the grafts that consisted of spreader and onlay grafts were tied to the radix nasi bone without any space. After 6 months of follow-up, a minimally warping defect was apparent in 8 patients but none of these patients requested another surgery. The analysis of the questionnaire responses revealed that > 90% of the patients were satisfied with the outcome of the procedure.