Internal suspension sutures in tip rhinoplasty.

BACKGROUND: Achieving an aesthetically pleasant tip rotation is paramount in rhinoplasty, and these results should be long-lasting. However, even powerful structural techniques such as septal extension grafts can lose rotation over time, as most support depends on the attachment of the graft to the septal cartilage. METHODS: We describe a simple suture technique to strengthen tip support in rhinoplasty, by suspending it to the cartilaginous dorsum, providing additional support to the tip against forces, such as gravity, scar contraction and muscle tension. CONCLUSIONS: Combining traditional techniques with suspension sutures can improve intraoperative results and could enhance long-term tip stability.

Comparison between endoscopic and microscopic butterfly cartilage graft inlay tympanoplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of endoscopic and microscopic approaches for butterfly cartilage graft inlay tympanoplasty regarding anatomical and hearing outcomes through a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: A search of PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, and Virtual Health Library was performed from inception to July 3rd, 2021, using keywords, such as tympanoplasty, cartilage graft, and inlay technique. Data from articles that met inclusion criteria were extracted by two authors independently. The PRISMA statement was followed. RoB-2 and ROBINS-I tools were used to assess risk of bias. The primary outcome was tympanic membrane closure rate. The secondary outcome was improvement of the air-bone gap. RESULTS: Five studies were included, one randomized clinical trial and four retrospective cohorts, in which a total of 318 patients were included. Graft take rate was 91.3% in the endoscopic group and 93.6% in the microscopic group (RR 0.98; 95% CI 0.93-1.03; I2 0%; P = 0.68). Four studies provided data about the secondary outcome, all showing significant reductions in air-bone gap, ranging from 5.7 to 11.0 in the endoscope group and from 5.8 to 11.6 in the microscope group, with a mean difference between groups of 0.85 (95% CI - 0.79 to 2.48). CONCLUSION: Although the overall evidence of the included studies was low, endoscopic and microscopic butterfly cartilage graft inlay tympanoplasties have similar results on anatomical and hearing outcomes, making the selection between such approaches an individual choice for the surgeon.

Rates of success in hearing and grafting in the perichondrium-preserved palisade island graft technique / Taxas de sucesso na audição e em timpanoplastias com a técnica de enxerto de cartilagem em ilha e paliçada preservado em pericôndrio

Abstract Introduction Various graft materials have been used in the tympanoplasty technique. Cartilage grafts are being used increasingly in recent years. Objective The aim of this study was to present the comparative outcomes of the perichondrium-preserved palisade island graft technique previously defined by ourselves. Methods We retrospectively compared the hearing and graft success rates in 108 patients with chronic otitis media, who had undergone cartilage tympanoplasty, where both island and perichondrium-preserved palisade graft techniques were used. Results The success rates among the study and the control groups with regard to graft take were 97% and 93%, respectively. No significant difference was observed between the groups with regard to the postoperative mean pure tone values, improvement in air-bone gaps and reduction in air-bone gaps to under 20 dB. However, better results were observed in the study group. Conclusion The perichondrium-preserved palisade island graft technique is an easy method with high graft success rates and hearing outcomes.

Resumo Introdução Vários materiais de enxerto têm sido usados na realização de timpanoplastias. Nos últimos anos, os enxertos de cartilagem têm sido cada vez mais usados. Objetivo Apresentar os resultados comparativos da técnica de enxerto de cartilagem em ilha associada e paliçada preservado em pericôndrio previamente descrita pelos autores. Método Foram comparadas retrospectivamente as taxas de sucesso auditivo e na "pega" do enxerto em 108 pacientes com otite média crônica, submetidos a timpanoplastia com cartilagem, na qual foram usadas ambas as técnicas, de enxerto em ilha e paliçada preservado em pericôndrio. Resultados As taxas de sucesso entre os grupos de estudo e controle em relação à "pega" do enxerto foram de 97% e 93%, respectivamente. Não foi observada diferença significante entre os grupos em relação aos valores médios dos tons puros, melhoria do gap ou redução do aéreo-ósseo para menos de 20 dB no pós-operatório. No entanto, melhores resultados foram observados no grupo de estudo. Conclusão A técnica de enxerto em ilha associada e paliçada preservado em pericôndrio é um métodofácil, com altas taxas de sucesso tanto do enxerto quanto dos resultados auditivos.

Caudal Extension Graft of the Lower Lateral Cartilage: Technique and Aesthetic and Functional Results.

Here we describe a new technique to deal with alar retraction, a highly undesirable imperfection of the nose. The procedure involves placing a caudal extension graft below the vestibular portion of the lower lateral cartilage (LLC) after its detachment from the vestibular skin. The graft is fixed to the cartilage and, subsequently, to the vestibular tissue. The present retrospective study included 20 patients, 11 females and 9 males, with a mean age of 28.90 years. Follow-up ranged from 1 to 18 months. Surgery improved alar notching to a smoother dome shape and nostril exposure was reduced in every patient. The caudal extension graft of the LLC contributed to rise in overall patient satisfaction, as revealed by the postoperative increase of the Rhinoplasty Outcomes Evaluation (ROE) mean score from 40.0 to 79.17 (p < 0.0001). It also contributed to and improved functional outcomes, as indicated by the decrease of the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) mean score from 52.75 to 13.25 (p = 0.0001). Sex did not affect the mean ROE and NOSE scores. Thus, increased patient satisfaction measured by the ROE is present in both sexes and at both age groups but it is better detected in the first year after surgery. Functional improvements analyzed with NOSE are best detected in patients aged ≥ 30 years and in follow-ups of 11 months. The caudal extension graft of the LLC technique described herein effectively and safely corrects alar retraction and the collapse of the nasal valve while filling the soft triangle.

Diferentes técnicas para colocação de enxerto de extensão caudal em rinoplastia / Different techniques for caudal extension graft placement in rhinoplasty

Resumo Introdução: O enxerto de extensão caudal é geralmente um enxerto de cartilagem que se sobrepõe à margem caudal do septo nasal. Uma combinação do enxerto de extensão caudal e a técnica de tongue-in-groove é usada para estabilizar a base nasal, definir a projeção da ponta e refinar a relação alar-columelar. Objetivo: Apresentar algumas novas modificações na colocação dos enxertos de extensão caudal na rinoplastia. Método: Revisão retrospectiva de um banco de dados prospectivamente coletado de 965 pacientes que se submeteram a rinosseptoplastia de junho de 2011 a julho de 2015. Desses, 457 pacientes necessitaram de enxerto de extensão caudal e foram incluídos no estudo. O seguimento mínimo foi de 13,2 meses, com tempo médio de seguimento de 17,4 meses. Resultados: Na maioria dos casos, a comparação das fotografias antes e após a cirurgia foi satisfatória e apresentou melhora do contorno. Pequenas deformidades foram detectadas em 41 pacientes e 11 pacientes necessitaram de cirurgia de revisão. Conclusão: Com essas modificações, o cirurgião pode usar o enxerto de extensão caudal mesmo em desvios angulares do septo caudal. Vários métodos têm sido propostos para correção do desvio septo-caudal.

Different techniques for caudal extension graft placement in rhinoplasty.

INTRODUCTION: The caudal extension graft is usually a cartilage graft that overlaps the caudal margin of the nasal septum. A combination of the caudal extension graft and the tongue-in-groove technique is used to stabilize the nasal base, set tip projection, and refine the alar-columellar relationship. OBJECTIVES: In this study we present some new modifications to the placement of caudal extension grafts in rhinoplasty. METHODS: This study is a retrospective review of a prospectively collected database of 965 patients who underwent septorhinoplasty from June 2011 to July 2015. Of these, 457 patients required a caudal extension graft and were included in the study. Minimum follow-up was 13.2 months with a mean follow-up time of 17.4 months. RESULTS: In most cases, comparison of photographs before and after surgery were satisfactory and showed improved contour. Minor deformity was detected in 41 patients and 11 patients needed revision surgery. CONCLUSION: With these modifications the surgeon can employ the caudal extension graft even in angulated caudal septal deviations. A variety of methods have been proposed for correction of caudal nasal deviation.

Rates of success in hearing and grafting in the perichondrium-preserved palisade island graft technique.

INTRODUCTION: Various graft materials have been used in the tympanoplasty technique. Cartilage grafts are being used increasingly in recent years. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to present the comparative outcomes of the perichondrium-preserved palisade island graft technique previously defined by ourselves. METHODS: We retrospectively compared the hearing and graft success rates in 108 patients with chronic otitis media, who had undergone cartilage tympanoplasty, where both island and perichondrium-preserved palisade graft techniques were used. RESULTS: The success rates among the study and the control groups with regard to graft take were 97% and 93%, respectively. No significant difference was observed between the groups with regard to the postoperative mean pure tone values, improvement in air-bone gaps and reduction in air-bone gaps to under 20dB. However, better results were observed in the study group. CONCLUSION: The perichondrium-preserved palisade island graft technique is an easy method with high graft success rates and hearing outcomes.

Outcome of Free Diced Cartilage Grafts in Rhinoplasty: A Systematic Review.

Diced cartilage grafts are used to increase and refine the nasal contour, providing easy molding and versatility when compared with block grafts. However, all grafts present the possibility of visibility, distortion, and absorption. The aim of this study is to evaluate, through a systematic review, the outcome of the use of the free diced graft cartilage in rhinoplasty. A systematic search of the literature was performed in the databases (PubMed, Lilacs, Scielo, Cochrane) with the terms "diced cartilage" and "rhinoplasty." Studies were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria and data extracted and grouped for analysis. Six eligible studies were included. In total, 4,044 patients underwent rhinoplasty with free diced cartilage graft, with 61 (1.51%) of them requiring reoperation. The main reasons were overcorrection and irregularities of the nasal dorsum. The infection rate was reported in three studies, with 2 (0.06%) of 3,252 patients presenting infection at the graft site. Two cases of displacement were treated with external molding, without reoperation. The graft resorption was reported in four articles, which described 22 (0.67%) cases of partial resorption in 3,288 patients. Therefore, the available evidence suggests that resorption of the graft and unfavorable outcomes are rare.

Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation for Hand and Wrist Articular Problems.

Management of hand and wrist avascular necrosis with osteochondral fragmentation or focal arthritis can be a challenging problem with a variety procedures described for its treatment. Osteochondral autograft transplantation systems have been utilized in various focal defects of the knee, ankle, elbow, and wrist. The same principle for the treatment of focal defects of the proximal scaphoid, proximal capitate as well as metacarpal head as an alternative treatment is described. The main indication for this treatment is to address focal or partial osteochondral defects where the size of the defect is smaller than the isthmus of the involved bone to accommodate a cylindrical osteochondral graft that can be press fit. Larger and complete defects are contraindications to this treatment. We discuss the surgical technique as well as its main indications and expected outcomes.

Pulse Lavage Fails to Significantly Reduce Bone Marrow Content in Osteochondral Allografts: A Histological and DNA Quantification Study.

BACKGROUND: Current clinical practice calls for pulse lavage of fresh osteochondral allografts (OCAs) to reduce immunogenicity; however, there is limited evidence of its effectiveness in reducing allogenic bone marrow elements. PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of pulse lavage in removing marrow elements from trabecular bone in fresh OCA transplantation. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: The authors evaluated 48 fresh OCA plugs with 4 different common sizes (14- and 24-mm diameter, 6- and 10-mm thickness). Within each size group, half of the samples underwent pulse lavage (n = 6) with saline solution and half were left untreated (no lavage; control group, n = 6). For each treatment and size group, 3 samples were analyzed for DNA content as an indicator of the number of residual nucleated cells; the other 3 samples were histologically analyzed to assess the presence and distribution of cells within subchondral bone pores in 3 specific locations within the plug: peripheral, intermediate, and core. RESULTS: Osteochondral plugs treated with pulse lavage did not show a significant decrease in DNA content in comparison with untreated plugs. Overall, histological analysis did not show a significant difference between the treated and untreated groups (P = .23). Subgroup analysis by size demonstrated decreased marrow content in treated versus untreated groups in the thinner plug sizes (14 × 6 mm and 24 × 6 mm). Histological evaluation by zone demonstrated a significant difference between groups only in the peripheral zone (P = .04). CONCLUSION: Pulse lavage has limited effectiveness in removing marrow elements, in particular in plugs that are larger in diameter and, more importantly, in thickness. Better techniques for subchondral bone treatment are required for more thorough removal of potentially immunogenic marrow elements. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: OCA transplantation has become an established treatment modality. Unfortunately, OCA is not without limitations, chiefly its mode of failure through inadequate integration of the allograft subchondral bone with subsequent collapse. In an effort to improve integration, current clinical practice calls for pulse lavage to remove allogenic bone marrow from the subchondral bone in hopes of decreasing the immunogenicity of the graft and facilitating revascularization.

Split cricoídeo posterior endoscópico con injerto de cartílago costal / Endoscopic posterior cricoid split with costal cartilage graft

RESUMEN A pesar de los avances en cirugía de vía aérea, tanto abierta como endoscópica, la inmovilidad bilateral de cuerdas vocales continúa representando un desafio significativo para los cirujanos de vía aérea. Entre las alternativas quirúrgicas existen tanto abordajes endoscópicos como transcervicales, no obstante, la mayoría de estas técnicas modifican estructuralmente regiones de la cuerda vocal y/o aritenoides de manera permanente. La traqueostomía ha sido el tratamiento de elección en niños con inmovilidad bilateral de cuerdas vocales severamente sintomática, sin embargo, el procedimiento ideal debiese establecer una vía aérea adecuada evitando la necesidad de realizar una traqueostomía, y a la vez no generar un deterioro de la función fonatoria. La capacidad de expandir el aspecto glótico posterior sin modificación estructural de aritenoides y/o ligamento vocal ha convertido a la sección cricoidea posterior endoscópica con injerto de cartílago costal en una alternativa quirúrgica atractiva para estos casos. En este trabajo se realiza una revisión de la literatura y presenta un caso tratado mediante esta técnica en el Hospital Guillermo Grant Benavente de Concepción, Chile.

ABSTRACT Despite advances in both open and endoscopic airway surgery, bilateral vocal cord immobility still poses a significant challenge for airway surgeons. Among the surgical alternatives there are both endoscopic and transcervical approaches. However, most of these techniques structurally modify certain regions of the vocal cord and/or arytenoids permanently. Tracheostomy has been the treatment of choice in severely symptomatic children with bilateral immobility of vocal cords. Nevertheless, the ideal procedure should establish an adequate airway, avoiding the need to perform a tracheostomy, and at the same time not causing a deterioration of the phonatory function. The ability to expand the posterior glottis without structural modification of the arytenoids and/or vocal ligament has converted the posterior endoscopic cricoid split with costal cartilage graft into an attractive surgical alternative for these cases. In this article we review the literature and present a case treated by this technique in the Guillermo Grant Benavente Hospital in Concepción, Chile.

Caudal Septal Extension Graft Sutured with Absorbable Material and Not Fixed to the Nasal Spine Region Compared with the Conventional Fixation Method: A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: The caudal septal extension graft (CSEG) is a predictable method for positioning the tip and columella during rhinoplasty, and it is commonly performed using permanent sutures and in some cases fixating the graft to the nasal spine region (NSR) (conventional method). Whether this predictability is preserved when using absorbable sutures has yet to be determined. METHODS: We performed a retrospective assessment of 1146 patients who underwent rhinoplasty performed by the same surgeon using the CSEG method from 2008 through 2017 in an academic setting. We utilized a computer-based patient record system for automatic data collection comparing outcomes of two groups: a group of patients who were operated on using the conventional fixation method (2008-2011) (group 1) with a second group in which absorbable sutures were used without fixation to the NSR (2011-2017) (group 2). The average follow-up period was 33.2 months. Patients operated on using a combination of methods and patients with less than 6 months of follow-up were excluded. All cases had the same septum-to-extension graft suturing technique with either permanent or absorbable suture material. This technique was side-to-side fixation with simple interrupted stitches. RESULTS: Outcomes were measured in terms of reoperation rates and complication rates grouped in 10 categories. There were no statistical differences in complication or reoperation rates between group 1 and group 2 except for suture extrusion and/or foreign body reaction (3.9% and 0.2%, respectively, P < 0.0001). Tip deprojection was of rare and similar occurrence in both groups (0.9% and 0.8%, respectively, P 0.88). CONCLUSION: Suturing CSEG with absorbable material and not fixing it to the NSR is a reliable variation in the conventional technique. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Periosteal Graft Myringoplasty: Our Experience

Abstract Introduction Different types of autologous graft materials are used for myringoplasty, with the temporalis fascia and cartilage being the most frequently used tissues. Periosteal tissue has been used for a long time in our department, and many advantages support its use in myringoplasty. To the best of our knowledge, this issue is scarcely discussed in the previously published literature. Objective To present our experience with periosteal graft myringoplasty, describing the technique and the anatomical and functional outcomes. Methods A prospective clinical study involving 88 patients (72 females and 16 males) with a mean age 26.9 years. The patients underwent myringoplasty using the mastoid cortex periosteum; they were all operated using the postauricular approach, and the graft was applied using the underlay technique. The patients performed pre- and postoperative pure tone audiometry for tested frequencies (0.5 kHz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz, and 4 kHz). All patients were followed-up for at least 12 months after the operation. Results The anatomical success rate among all patients was of 93%, which is comparable to the rate of success in procedures using other usual grafting materials. In addition, there was a highly significant postoperative improvement in pure tone audiometry results as compared with the preoperative ones (the main hearing gain was of ∼ 11 dB; p< 0.001). Conclusion The periosteal graft is easily harvested, easy to apply, with excellent anatomical and functional success.

Nueva alternativa para relleno y camuflaje de dorso nasal: Injerto mixto de L-PRF y cartílago / New alternative for filling and camouflage of nasal dorsum: Mixed graft of L-PRF and cartilage

RESUMEN Introducción: Entre las alteraciones del dorso nasal puede encontrarse desde un rádix bajo hasta un aplastamiento severo del dorso nasal, siendo fundamental el uso de injertos y material de relleno. Objetivo: Proponer una nueva alternativa de relleno y camuflaje en rinoplastía mediante un injerto mixto de L-PRF más cartílago picado en una matriz de fibrina autóloga. Material y método: Evaluación de los pacientes operados de rinoseptoplastía en quienes se utilizó el injerto mixto entre febrero y septiembre del año 2016 en el Servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital Regional de Concepción. Evaluación de resultados respecto a reabsorción e irregularidades del injerto y autoevaluación del grado de satisfacción. Resultados: Fueron operados 7 pacientes. Cuatro de ellos presentaban aplastamiento severo de dorso nasal y tres un rádix profundo. Se logró el relleno y camuflaje del área deseada en todos los casos. No se presentó desplazamiento ni reabsorción del injerto en ninguno de los casos. El uso de este injerto no significó mayor costo económico, y el grado de satisfacción fue alto en todos los casos. Conclusión: Primer estudio en utilizar un injerto mixto de cartílago más L-PRF en una matriz de fibrina autóloga en rinoplastía, demostrando ser una alternativa asequible, efectiva, reproducible y segura, particularmente útil en casos de revisión.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Among the alterations of the nasal dorsum there can be found from a low radix to a severe crushing of the nasal dorsum, being fundamental the use of grafts and filling materials. Aim: To propose a new filling and camouflage alternative in rhinoplasty by means of a mixed graft of L-PRF and chopped cartilage in an autologous fibrin matrix. Material and method: Evaluation of the operated patients of rhinoseptoplasty in whom the mixed graft was used between February and September 2016 in the Otorhinolaryngology unit of the Hospital Regional de Concepción. Evaluation of results regarding resorption and graft irregularities and self-assessment of degree of satisfaction. Results: Seven patients were operated. Four of them presented severe crushing of the nasal dorsum and three of them a deep radix. The filling and camouflage of desired area was achieved in all cases. There were no displacement or resorption of the graft in any case. The use of this graft did not mean greater economic cost, and the degree of satisfaction was high in all cases. Conclusions: First study to use a mixed graft of cartilage and L-PRF in an autologous fibrin matrix in rhinoplasty, proving to be an affordable, effective, reproducible and safe alternative, particularly useful in revision surgeries.

Correcting the Cleft Lip Nose Deformity: The Graft Number 1 for the Columella.

BACKGROUND: The nose deformity associated with cleft lip is difficult to solve in the primary and secondary surgery. In an adult patient, many techniques are used including mobilization, suspension, fixation and trimming the alar cartilages, septoplasty, nasal bones osteotomies, and dorsal bone and cartilage resection. Different types of cartilage grafts are commonly used. METHODS: A septal cartilage graft was used in 75 adult patients with mild to severe cleft lip deformities. Based on the golden ratio proportions of the columella that can be observed in the lateral view, a septal cartilage graft with a number 1 shape was created and inserted between the medial cruras in 75 patients, with unilateral or bilateral cleft lip, between 2007 and 2014. Complementary surgery was done in the nose of all the patients. A retrospective, observational, and descriptive study was made with presurgical and postsurgical photographs, throughout a 6-month follow-up period. RESULTS: Excellent cosmetic and functional results were seen, especially in the lateral view. There was 1 septal perforation reported. The patients were satisfied with the aesthetic results. CONCLUSION: The graft number 1 works in the reality; it has proven to be a stable support to the affected cartilage, projects a nice nasal tip, and is a lasting solution for adults.

Bilateral same-day endoscopic transcanal cartilage tympanoplasty: initial results / Timpanoplastia bilateral transcanal por via endoscópica com cartilagem realizada simultaneamente: resultados iniciais

Abstract Introduction: Same-day closure of bilateral tympanic membrane perforations is a quick and more comfortable procedure for the patients. However, conventional bilateral same-day tympanoplasty or myringoplasty has been rarely performed because of the theoretical risk of postoperative complications. Objective: To evaluate the advantages and outcomes of bilateral simultaneous endoscopic cartilage tympanoplasty in patients with bilateral tympanic membrane perforations. Methods: From February 2012 to March 2013, patients with bilateral dry tympanic membrane perforations who had some degree of hearing loss corresponding to the size and location of the perforation entered the study. There was no suspicion to disrupted ossicular chain, mastoid involvement or other middle or inner ear pathology. Endoscopic transcanal cartilage tympanoplasty was done using the underlay (medial) technique. The graft was harvested from cymba cartilage in just one ear with preservation of perichondrium in one side. A 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm cartilage seemed to be enough for tympanoplasty in both sides. Results: Nine patients (4 males and 5 females) with the mean age of 37.9 years underwent bilateral transcanal cartilage tympanoplasty in a same-day surgery. The mean duration of follow up was 15.8 months. There were detected no complications including hearing loss, otorrhea and wound complication with no retraction pocket or displaced graft during follow-up period. The grafts take rate was 94.44% (only one case of unilateral incomplete closure). The mean of air-bone gap overall improved from 13.88 dB preoperatively to 9.16 dB postoperatively (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Bilateral endoscopic transcanal cartilage tympanoplasty can be considered as a safe minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in a same-day surgery. It reduces the costs and operation time and is practical with a low rate of postoperative complications.

Resumo Introdução: O fechamento no mesmo dia de perfuração bilateral da membrana timpânica é um procedimento rápido e mais confortável para os pacientes. Entretanto, a timpanoplastia ou miringoplastia convencional bilateral executada no mesmo procedimento tem sido raramente feita devido ao risco teórico de complicações pós-operatórias. Objetivo: Avaliar as vantagens e os resultados da timpanoplastia bilateral simultânea com cartilagem por via endoscópica em pacientes com perfuração bilateral da membrana timpânica. Método: De fevereiro de 2012 a março de 2013, pacientes com perfuração seca bilateral da membrana timpânica que tinham algum grau de perda de audição correspondente ao tamanho e à localização da perfuração foram incluídos no estudo. Não houve suspeita de cadeia ossicular interrompida, envolvimento do mastoide ou outra doença da orelha média ou interna. Timpanoplastia com cartilagem transcanal foi executada por via endoscópica com a técnica de underlay (medial). O enxerto foi colhido de cartilagem da concha superior (cymba) em apenas uma orelha com preservação do pericôndrio em um lado. Um enxerto de 1,5 × 1,5 centímetro de cartilagem pareceu ser o suficiente para a timpanoplastia em ambos os lados. Resultados: Nove pacientes (quatro homens e cinco mulheres) com média de 37,9 anos foram submetidos à timpanoplastia bilateral com cartilagem transcanal em uma cirurgia feita em etapa única. O tempo médio de acompanhamento foi de 15,8 meses. Não foram detectadas complicações, inclusive perda de audição, otorreia e complicações como bolsa de retração ou deslocamento de enxerto durante o período de seguimento. A taxa de sucesso do enxerto foi de 94,44% (apenas um caso de fechamento unilateral incompleto). A média do gap aéreo-ósseo em geral melhorou de 13,88 dB no pré-operatório para 9,16 dB no pós-operatório (p < 0,05). Conclusão: Timpanoplastia bilateral com cartilagem transcanal por via endoscópica pode ser considerada como um procedimento minimamente invasivo, seguro e que pode ser executado em uma única cirurgia. Isso reduz os custos e tempo de operação e é prático, com um baixo índice de complicações pós-operatórias.

Caudal septum surgery techniques reviewed.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The caudal septum has important functional and aesthetic implications. Deviations in this area can result in important nasal obstruction due not only to blockage of the nasal passage but also to compromise of the internal nasal valve. Cosmetically, alterations in the caudal septum can result in a twisted nasal tip, loss of projection, rotation, and imbalance in the ala-columellar relationship. Contemporary surgical options will be discussed showing how to preserve, reshape, and reinforce the caudal septum to obtain a final looking nose that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent publications have shown that cartilage preservation and remodeling techniques can be efficient in the treatment of the caudal septum. Adequate preoperative diagnosis must be made to be able to create a step-wise approach evolving from simple suturing techniques to more complex ones that require the use of grafts to reposition and keep the caudal septum in the midline with an adequate functional and cosmetic outcome. SUMMARY: Adequate management of the caudal portion of the nasal septum is a challenge because of its importance in nasal function and cosmetic final results. There are many surgical options that can be used to correct and align this structure and there is no one single surgical technique that can be used in all cases. A step-wise approach is presented covering the different techniques used today evolving from simple to more complicated ones. The final surgical objective should be cosmetically pleasing noses that function appropriately.

Bilateral same-day endoscopic transcanal cartilage tympanoplasty: initial results.

INTRODUCTION: Same-day closure of bilateral tympanic membrane perforations is a quick and more comfortable procedure for the patients. However, conventional bilateral same-day tympanoplasty or myringoplasty has been rarely performed because of the theoretical risk of postoperative complications. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the advantages and outcomes of bilateral simultaneous endoscopic cartilage tympanoplasty in patients with bilateral tympanic membrane perforations. METHODS: From February 2012 to March 2013, patients with bilateral dry tympanic membrane perforations who had some degree of hearing loss corresponding to the size and location of the perforation entered the study. There was no suspicion to disrupted ossicular chain, mastoid involvement or other middle or inner ear pathology. Endoscopic transcanal cartilage tympanoplasty was done using the underlay (medial) technique. The graft was harvested from cymba cartilage in just one ear with preservation of perichondrium in one side. A 1.5cm×1.5cm cartilage seemed to be enough for tympanoplasty in both sides. RESULTS: Nine patients (4 males and 5 females) with the mean age of 37.9 years underwent bilateral transcanal cartilage tympanoplasty in a same-day surgery. The mean duration of follow up was 15.8 months. There were detected no complications including hearing loss, otorrhea and wound complication with no retraction pocket or displaced graft during follow-up period. The grafts take rate was 94.44% (only one case of unilateral incomplete closure). The mean of air-bone gap overall improved from 13.88dB preoperatively to 9.16dB postoperatively (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Bilateral endoscopic transcanal cartilage tympanoplasty can be considered as a safe minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in a same-day surgery. It reduces the costs and operation time and is practical with a low rate of postoperative complications.