Balanced Cantilever Graft for Supporting the Cartilaginous Side Wall of Nose

Abstract

Abstract Background Many locations for the nasal valve have been suggested, and more recently the concept of the flow-limiting segment was introduced. Rather than being controlled by an internal and external valve, flow through the nose is regulated by the cartilaginous side wall, septum, and inferior turbinate. Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the balanced cantilever graft (BCLG) as a technique to support the lateral nasal wall. Methods Patients undergoing primary open septorhinoplasty over a 2-year period were studied. Follow-up period was a minimum of 6 months to a maximum of 24 months. Subjective improvement of function was measured with a visual analog scale (VAS) and aesthetic outcomes by FACE-Q score. Objective assessment of the airway was performed with a nasal peak inspiratory flow (NPIF) meter. Strips of septal cartilage of sufficient dimensions were placed in submucosal pockets created under the area of the lateral wall to be supported. Results Sixty patients received BCLGs. The VAS score for nasal obstruction increased from 2.6 preoperatively to 8.1 postoperatively. FACE-Q increased from 16.7 preoperatively to 36.6 postoperatively. NPIF was 74.9 L/minute preoperatively, improving to 95 L/minute postoperatively. Statistically significant improvements were seen in these functional and aesthetic scores. Conclusions BCLGs support the weakened part of lateral nasal wall by their elastance. Minimal cartilage is required and the graft can be altered to support various parts of the lateral nasal wall. This graft does not cause an aesthetic deficiency whilst providing adequate support. Level of Evidence: 4