Preliminary evaluation of nasal dorsum and columellar stability after rhinoplasty using extended septal grafts of ePTFE on computed tomography

  • Lâm Việt Anh Trường Khoa học Sức khỏe, Đại học VinUniversity
  • Trần Minh Trang Trường Khoa học Sức khỏe, Đại học VinUniversity
  • Nguyễn Phương Giang Trường Khoa học Sức khỏe, Đại học VinUniversity
  • Trần Tấn Phát Trường Khoa học Sức khỏe, Đại học VinUniversity
  • Hoàng Minh Phúc Học viện Quân Y
  • Hoàng Thanh Tuấn Bệnh viện Trung ương Quân đội 108

Main Article Content

Keywords

ePTFE, nasal dorsum, columella, rhinoplasty, computed tomography (CT).

Abstract

The nasal dorsum and columella are the main structures determining the projection and shape of the nasal tip in rhinoplasty. Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) has been increasingly used due to its softness and high biocompatibility; however, the evaluation of postoperative stability remains largely subjective. Objective: To assess the stability of the nasal dorsum and columella, as well as changes in density and tissue integration following ePTFE-based rhinoplasty using computed tomography (CT). Subject and method: A prospective study was conducted on 28 patients who underwent multidetector CT scanning (slice thickness of 0.5 mm) at five time points: preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at 1 month, 6 months, and ≥ 12 months postoperatively. Results: Nasal tip projection remained stable at 91.2% after 12 months. The density of ePTFE and surrounding soft tissue exhibited cyclic changes corresponding to inflammation–stabilization–fibrosis phases, reflecting tissue integration. No displacement, infection, or graft rejection was observed. The mean satisfaction score was 8.6/10. Conclusion: ePTFE is a material with high mechanical stability, excellent biocompatibility, and effective tissue integration. CT scanning serves as an objective and accurate tool for monitoring the position and density of ePTFE, aiding in the assessment of its stability and the early detection of postoperative complications.

Article Details

References

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