Rhinoplasty Assisted by Endoscopic Septoplasty: Precise Job and an Educational Tool

A feasibility study of using a high-definition intra-operative exoscope in teaching septorhinoplasty

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility of using a high-definition intra-operative exoscope in teaching septorhinoplasty.

METHODS

The exoscope was used in septorhinoplasty cases with different trainers and trainees. A high-definition screen displayed real-time, magnified images. Post-procedure, a questionnaire was completed by trainer and trainees, assessing the feasibility, safety and content validity of the exoscope as a septorhinoplasty training tool.

RESULTS

Trainees and trainers assigned favourable ratings to all aspects of the exoscope as a training tool, particularly with regard to teaching anatomy and improving visualisation.

CONCLUSION

The exoscope is a potentially effective training tool in septorhinoplasty, and is especially useful in improving visualisation, without restricting the operator. Annotatable intra-operative photographs and videos allow trainees to study cases outside of the operating theatre environment. The use of an exoscope for septorhinoplasty in the UK may facilitate increased hands-on involvement earlier in training than is currently typical.

Video-Assisted Septo-rhinoplasty, the Future of Endonasal Rhinoplasty-A Technical Note

INTRODUCTION

Surgeons have sought to improve outcomes in rhinoplasty through innovative techniques. Although many publications illustrate the advantages of endoscopic septoplasty over conventional methods, few have evaluated the benefits of endoscopy for rhinoplasty. In this article, the authors meticulously describe their own technique that offers a sustainable alternative to open approach rhinoplasty, with high reproducibility and enhanced knowledge for young surgeons.

METHODS

The technique involves using video-assisted endoscopy for enhanced visibility and access. Various steps are performed, including hemitransfixion incision, septoplasty if necessary, dorsal reduction, and the development of endoscopic spreader flaps. Nasal tip surgery follows standard endonasal rhinoplasty techniques.

RESULTS

This technique has been successfully performed for years in primary and secondary rhinoplasties, resulting in improved aesthetic and functional outcomes without external scars. The endoscopic view enhances understanding for surgeons and residents, while preserving internal valve function and minimizing swelling. Patients express high satisfaction with the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Video-assisted endoscopic septo-rhinoplasty offers a valuable alternative, providing natural outcomes with improved visualization and reduced complications. It is applicable to various indications and demonstrates its effectiveness compared to traditional approaches. The advanced endoscopic guided septo-rhinoplasty technique combines the benefits of open approach rhinoplasty while avoiding its drawbacks.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Ligament Preservation in Open Rhinoplasty: Prospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

In the open rhinoplasty technique, the soft tissue and ligaments are vulnerable to injury. Reconstruction of the ligaments is not performed routinely. The authors aimed to assess the effect of preservation of the nasal ligaments (ie, scroll, septocolumellar, and Pitanguy ligaments) in open-approach rhinoplasty.

METHODS

In this prospective cohort study, 32 patients underwent open rhinoplasty with ligament preservation after receiving precise training on five cadavers.

RESULTS

All patients had improved aesthetic and functional outcome in the early postoperative period with long-lasting preservation of tip projection and results. No patient needed secondary revision surgery for tip dropping or malrotation. The objective findings and subjective assessments were satisfying for the patients and surgeons.

CONCLUSIONS

Refinements of nasal surgery have no limits. This study suggests that nasal ligament reconstruction, including of the scroll, septocolumellar, and Pitanguy ligaments, could maintain nasal tip projection and rotation for a long time.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.

Minimally invasive techniques in rhinoplasty

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To present criteria of minimally invasive surgery, which include minimal and hidden incision lines, reduced injury to tissue and application of endoscopic techniques, when feasible; to analyze techniques in rhinoplasty for their minimally invasive character - in light of recent publications; and to discuss the techniques that best meet the criteria of minimally invasive surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS

The nose consists of about 60 percent soft tissue and 40 percent skeletal elements. Surgery causes injury to both tissue types through various mechanisms, including mechanical traction, separation, incision, heat, desiccation, and others. Multiple aspects including extent of approach and degree of tissue undermining determine the minimally invasive character of techniques and maneuvers in rhinoplasty.

SUMMARY

A single incision endonasal approach, the subperichondrial and subperiosteal septal plane, the supraperichondrial plane over the cartilaginous dorsum, the subperiosteal plane over the bony dorsum, limited dorsal undermining with endoscopic visualization when feasible, conventional straight lateral osteotomy or percutaneous curved lateral osteotomy; percutaneous transverse osteotomy; conventional straight paramedian osteotomy; piezo and drill paramedian ostectomy; dorsal uncapping osteotomy; conventional rasp gross dorsal contouring; piezo or drill fine dorsal contouring; (cartilaginous) middle vault 'let down'; and minimal access subperiosteal turbinate bone resection were found to best fulfil the criteria of minimally invasive surgery. A classification system for the degree of minimally invasiveness of rhinoplasty techniques is proposed as a basis for discussion.