Simultaneous Rhinoplasty and Septal Perforation Repair Using the Bone-Cartilaginous Unit.

[BACKGROUND] Various techniques are employed for septal perforation repair but success rates still vary. Numerous mucosal flaps are used for septal perforation closure; however, a scaffold is essential for proper positioning and enhanced mucosal growth.

[OBJECTIVES] The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of utilizing a septal bone/cartilage composite graft (BC unit) to close septal perforations in rhinoplasty patients and evaluate patient satisfaction.

[METHODS] This case series included patients with septal perforation undergoing rhinoplasty and perforation repair between 2019 and 2023. BC units were used to cover the cartilaginous perforations in all patients. Patients were followed for a minimum of 1 year, assessing surgical results and postoperative satisfaction with the 10-item Standardized Cosmesis and Health Nasal Outcomes Survey (SCHNOS).

[RESULTS] In this study, 31 patients (22 female, 9 male), with a mean [standard deviation] age of 34.80 [10.31] years (range, 19-59 years), were enrolled. Nine had previousl undergone septoplasty, while four had undergone septorhinoplasty. The preoperative perforation size ranged from 6 to 27 mm (mean, 14.1 mm). At final follow-up, 26 cases (83.8%) achieved complete closure, while 3 had incomplete closures, and 2 experienced reperforation. Analysis revealed a notable mean decrease of 31.93 [26.47] in obstruction domain scores (SCHNOS-O) and a mean decrease of 44.19 [25.37] in cosmesis domain scores (SCHNOS-C).

[CONCLUSIONS] Septal perforation repair and rhinoplasty can be safely and effectively performed concurrently with BC units for suitable candidates.