EFFECTIVENESS OF CARTILAGE TRANSPLANTS IN RECONSTRUCTIVE OPERATIONS ON THE NOSE

Abstract

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of the use of auto- and homo-cartilages of the nasal septum in reconstructive operations on the nose and fixation methods in a case of deformation of the nose and nasal septum. Material and methods. In 3 years, 1987 patients were hospitalized in the ENT department for reconstructive operations of the external nose and nasal septum. All patients during the hospital stay underwent general clinical, otorhinolaryngological, radiological examinations, and photo documentation of the organ. Results and discussion. Among observed patients 23 (1,2%) had a deformation of the external nose, 98 (4,9%) patients had combined deformation of the external nose and nasal septum. All patients received rhinoplasty and rhino-septoplasty respectively. Conclusion. Positive long-term functional and cosmetic results of reconstructive surgeries with the application of auto- and homo-cartilage grafts of the nasal septum allows recommending this available material in rhinoplasty. Strong fixation of the graft with plastic splints and gypsum joints helps to achieve better cosmetic and functional results.