The Lateral Crural Underlay Spring Graft

Abstract

The objective of this study is to evaluate the functional and aesthetic results obtained from the use of the lateral crural underlay spring (LCUS) graft for the treatment of internal and external nasal valve collapse. In this retrospective study, preoperative and postoperative functional and aesthetic results were compared in patients undergoing treatment for internal or external nasal valve collapse. Results were scored by means of a questionnaire and visual analog scale completed by the patients. Eight patients were recruited and included in this study: 6 (75%) had an improvement in their functional scores, 1 (12%) remained unchanged, and 1 (12%) scored worse. The mean difference in functional scores after the intervention was 9.4 points (p < 0.005). There was no significant difference in aesthetic scores. We found evidence that the LCUS graft is effective for relieving nasal obstruction in patients with internal, external, or combined nasal valve collapse. The amount of increased sidewall tension and rigidity as well as the increase in nasal valve angle and cross-sectional area are determined by the length of the graft, which can be varied according to need.