Preliminary evaluation of nasal dorsum and columellar stability after rhinoplasty using extended septal grafts of ePTFE on computed tomography
Main Article Content
Keywords
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
2. Hoàng HLT, Nguyễn HV, Phạm TH (2018) Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex) versus silicone in augmentation rhinoplasty: early outcomes in Vietnamese patients. J Cosmet Med 2(1): 23-29.
3. Xiang H, Kim J, Park JH (2022) The latest trends in Asian rhinoplasty. Arch Aesthetic Plast Surg 28(2): 47-54.
4. Pech P, Hricak H (1985) Computed tomography of silicone and other prosthetic materials in the body. Radiology 154(3): 679-683.
5. Ham J (2003) Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene implants in rhinoplasty. Plast Reconstr Surg 111(2): 853-860.
6. Dong L, Zhang X, Li Y (2010) Augmentation rhinoplasty with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene: a Chinese experience. Aesthetic Plast Surg 34(5): 637-642.
7. Gu Y, Yu W, Jin Y et al (2018) Safety and efficacy of cosmetic augmentation of the nasal tip and nasal dorsum with ePTFE: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA Facial Plast Surg 20(4): 277-283. doi:10.1001/jamafacial.2017.2423.
8. Zelken JA, Choi J, Hsiao YC (2017) Asian rhinoplasty with composite silicone-PTFE implants: long-term outcomes. Aesthetic Surg J 37(4): NP47-NP54.
9. Kim HS, Park SW, Lee J (2023) Long-term changes in soft tissue surrounding alloplastic implants in Asian rhinoplasty. Facial Plast Surg 39(3): 211-219.
ISSN: 1859 - 2872