David C Bloom1, Craig L Cupp. 1. Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Naval Medical Center San Diego, 34520 Bob Wilson Drive, Suite 200, San Diego, CA 92134-2200, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Understanding tip support mechanisms is essential for nasal surgery, especially for preservation or augmentation of tip projection. METHODS: Support of the nasal tip often is improved by the use of struts placed between the medial crura. The percutaneous columellar strut is a technique that provides additional tip support during septoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. The strut is placed via a small vertical columellar incision. RESULTS: The advantage of easy and simple insertion outweighs the minor potential disadvantage of a small, visible vertical columellar scar. It is useful in addressing tip ptosis when trauma, surgery, or aging has reduced the contribution of the septum to tip support. CONCLUSION: A detailed description of the percutaneous columellar strut technique and results of its application are presented.
BACKGROUND: Understanding tip support mechanisms is essential for nasal surgery, especially for preservation or augmentation of tip projection. METHODS: Support of the nasal tip often is improved by the use of struts placed between the medial crura. The percutaneous columellar strut is a technique that provides additional tip support during septoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. The strut is placed via a small vertical columellar incision. RESULTS: The advantage of easy and simple insertion outweighs the minor potential disadvantage of a small, visible vertical columellar scar. It is useful in addressing tip ptosis when trauma, surgery, or aging has reduced the contribution of the septum to tip support. CONCLUSION: A detailed description of the percutaneous columellar strut technique and results of its application are presented.
Authors: Leonardo Bomediano Sousa Garcia; Pedro Wey de Oliveira; Tatiana de Aguiar Vidigal; Vinicius de Magalhães Suguri; Rodrigo de Paula Santos; Luis Carlos Gregório Journal: Braz J Otorhinolaryngol Date: 2011 Mar-Apr