Histologic Comparison of Ultrafine Diced Cartilage and Conventionally Diced Cartilage Wrapped in Fascia in a Rabbit Model.

[BACKGROUND] Ultrafine dicing, which reduces cartilage particles to less than 0.2 mm, has gained attention for producing dense implants with reduced distortion. However, concerns about long-term viability and cell damage because of extensive manipulation remain. The authors aimed to compare the histologic outcomes of ultrafine and conventionally diced cartilage wrapped in fascia in a rabbit model, providing insight into their potential use in rhinoplasty.

[METHODS] Ten New Zealand White rabbits were divided into 2 groups. Cartilage was harvested from both ears, with 1 graft diced into 1- to 2-mm pieces and the other into pieces smaller than 0.2 mm. Both types were wrapped in fascia and implanted subcutaneously. Histologic analyses, using hematoxylin and eosin, Masson trichrome, and safranin-O staining, were performed at 8 weeks and 6 months postoperatively. The percentages of cartilage cells and dead space were compared between groups.

[RESULTS] There was significantly higher cartilage cell density in the ultrafine diced group at both 8 weeks and 6 months than in the conventionally diced group. The ultrafine diced cartilage also exhibited less dead space and maintained a dense composition of type II collagen, suggesting a resilient and natural implant material.

[CONCLUSIONS] Ultrafine dicing resulted in superior histologic outcomes, with higher cartilage cell density and less fibrosis compared with conventional methods. These findings suggest that ultrafine diced cartilage may be an effective method for achieving natural and stable results in rhinoplasty. Further research involving human participants is needed to confirm these results.

[CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT] Ultrafine dicing of cartilage provides superior histological outcomes, with higher cell density and less fibrosis compared with conventional methods. This technique may offer plastic surgeons a more effective option for achieving stable, natural results in rhinoplasty, pending further human studies.