Rib Plaster: A Versatile, Moldable Derivative from Scraping the Periphery of the Rib

Abstract

Summary: A simple technique is described for obtaining rib plaster by scraping the whitish peripheral portion of residual segments of rib after the perichondrium is removed and appropriate multiple laminations are derived. This putty-like substance tends to conglomerate appropriately because of its high density and has unique properties. It is readily compacted into diced cartilage inserters, smoothly injected, and easy to mold. Rib plaster works well for camouflage of irregularities of the dorsum and tip as well as in mild augmentation. It adds no further cost, and is in adequate supply once a full-thickness rib segment has been harvested for secondary rhinoplasty.