Transcutaneous Columellar Strut for Correcting Caudal Nasal Septal Deviation

Abstract

Correction of caudal septal deviation is a challenging issue because of its significant role in tip support mechanisms. Some interventions especially aggressive resection of caudal septum to correct deviation, may compromise external nasal valve, tip ptosis and persistence of nasal obstruction. Many surgical techniques have been suggested to correct this type of nasal septal deviation. This study presents a technique to correct caudal septal deviation without weakening of tip support mechanisms. To evaluate the efficacy of insertion of a transcutaneous columellar strut during correction of caudal septal deviation. The study was performed in patients complaining from nasal obstruction with caudal septal deviation. After intranasal incision and elevation of mucoperichondrial flap, Caudal septum released from anterior nasal spine (ANS) and a band of cartilage removed from inferior and caudal part of septum and septum again fixed to ANS. Through a vertical transcutaneous incision, a cartilaginous strut is placed in columella, between medial crurae. Preoperative and postoperative NOSE score determined and photographs were taken. In 14 patients we performed this technique, the postoperative NOSE score showed significant improvement, (p = 0.001). Nasal breathing improved in all patients without any complication or tip ptosis or worsening of nasal appearance. This septoplasty technique along with placement of transcolumellar strut, is an easy, efficient and complication free method for simultaneously correction of caudal deviation of nasal septum, reinforcing external nasal valve and prevents tip ptosis.