Management of the nasal dorsum: Hospital Clínico de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, ENT Department experience

Abstract

Introduction: A right dorsum is one of the main objectives for patients who undergoes to rhinoseptoplasty. However, excessive dorsal resection can bring aesthetic and functional consequences. Aim: To describe the experience in the management of the nasal dorsum by the Hos­pital Clínico de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, ENT Department. Material and method: Retrospective study. All patients surgical protocols of rhinoseptoplasty between January 2010 and June 2011 were reviewed. Results: 153 patients were collected, 67% of them were women. The average age was 27.5 years. The open approach was performed in 78%. Over 95% of patients required dorsal osteocartilaginous resection and osteotomies. The spreader graft was the most commonly used dorsal graft (51%). In 101 women and 47 men, nasal tip work were performed (p <0.05). Discussion: In our experience the open approach allows us to obtain a clear vision of the nasal anatomy. Septoplasty is important in the management of the nasal obstruction, and it permits to obtain good quality grafts. In patients at risk of valvular collapse is important a conservative dorsal resection and spreader grafts.