DefinePK

Research Objective

To compare the aesthetic results of diced cartilage and block cartilage when used for nose dorsum augmentation in mild saddle nose deformity.

Methodology

Retrospective comparative study conducted at the Department of Plastic Surgery, Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi, from January 2017 to December 2019. Two groups were selected: diced graft (n=11) and segment cartilage graft (n=13), totaling 24 patients. Retrospective data analysis included aesthetic outcomes rated as fair, good, and excellent based on pre- and postoperative pictures assessed by two blinded plastic surgeons, and patient satisfaction via S-VAS. Average follow-up was 6 months.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD;
    A["Patient Selection Mild Saddle Nose"] --> B["Divide into Groups"];
    B --> C["Group A: Block Cartilage Graft n=13"];
    B --> D["Group B: Diced Cartilage Graft n=11"];
    C --> E["Perform Open Rhinoplasty"];
    D --> E;
    E --> F["Postoperative Care & Splinting"];
    F --> G["Follow-up Average 6 Months"];
    G --> H["Data Collection: Aesthetic Outcome & Patient Satisfaction"];
    H --> I["Analysis by Blinded Surgeons & S-VAS"];
    I --> J["Statistical Analysis"];
    J --> K["Compare Aesthetic Results & Satisfaction"];
    K --> L["Conclusion on Graft Technique Efficacy"];                    

Discussion

The study suggests the superiority of diced cartilage grafts for dorsal augmentation in patients with mild saddle nose, showing better overall outcomes and satisfaction rates compared to block cartilage grafts. The diced technique offers greater flexibility for minor adjustments and correction of deviations.

Key Findings

Aesthetic outcomes for diced cartilage graft were excellent in 81.8% versus 76.9% for block cartilage graft. Patient satisfaction was extremely satisfied in 72.7% for diced cartilage versus 69.2% for block cartilage. The diced cartilage graft technique showed a significantly higher satisfaction rate (p=0.031).

Conclusion

The free diced cartilage graft technique is an effective and easily reproducible method for nose dorsum augmentation in aesthetic and reconstructive rhinoplasty for mild saddle deformity, leading to higher patient satisfaction.

Fact Check

1. The study included a total of 24 patients. (Confirmed: 11 in diced group + 13 in block group = 24)
2. The study period was from January 2017 to December 2019. (Confirmed)
3. A p-value of 0.031 was found to be significant, indicating a high satisfaction rate in the diced cartilage group. (Confirmed)

Mind Map