Caudal septal extension grafts: conchal cartilage or PDS foil-empowered nasal cartilage

Y. Kurt, O. Oğuz, N. Bayar Muluk, C. Cingi

Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Antalya Finike State Hospital, Finike, Antalya, Turkey. nbayarmuluk@yahoo.com

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• Maxillofacial Surgery
• Otorhinolaryngology
• Rhinology

We reviewed the potential benefits of conchal cartilage or Polydioxanone (PDS) foil-empowered nasal cartilage as caudal septal extension grafts (CSEGs). Research methods included searching online databases such as Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Proquest Central at Kırıkkale University. Use terms like “caudal septal extension grafts,” “septal extension grafts,” “conchal cartilage,” and “PDS foil-empowered nasal cartilage” to find related articles. Due to the anchoring of the lower alar cartilage to the nasal septum, the results of a CSEG rhinoplasty are relatively stable over the long term. They can be adjusted independently by the rhinoplasty surgeon. Over time, the skin and soft tissue envelope contract and a downward force for these grafts develops. It allows for independent regulation of projection and rotation, unlike conventional columellar strut procedures and lateral crural steal techniques. Inadequate cartilage may need conchal or costal cartilage, depending on the application and the need for projection and counter rotation. Costal cartilage transplant outperformed conchal cartilage graft in a rabbit model regarding tip projection and angle relapse rate. Three-patient case series show that PDS foil-enhanced nasal cartilage led to septal cartilage loss. However, other research draws a different result, finding that PDS foil-enhanced nasal cartilage prevented growth inhibition in the developing nasal septum following septoplasty, and reduced late problems in animals. The caudal septal extension grafts should prioritize septum cartilage if it is readily available, of adequate size, and with sufficient strength. If this is not possible, PDS foil-enhanced nasal cartilage fragments or conchal cartilage could be used as a backup. PDS foil will maintain the integrity and stability of the implanted cartilage. Due to its strength, stability, and convenient location, conchal cartilage will serve as the second donor site.

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