Primary rhinocheiloplasty: Comparison of open and closed methods of alar cartilage reposition.

[AIMS] To establish which rhinoplasty method for primary repairing of unilateral cleft lip (UCL) is better.

[SETTINGS AND DESIGN] Two patient groups with cleft lip were compared. Each group was operated on either by McComb's technique as closed rhinoplasty method or by Vissarionov-Kosin technique as an open method.

[SUBJECTS AND METHODS] First group included 29 patients and the second consisted of 31. All patients were operated on by single surgeon over 10 years. Randomization was based on wishes and intention of surgeon to use one of two methods. Evaluation of results was based on impartial data, and subjective information collected from respondents with different levels of knowledge about UCL. The objective scale was based on the evaluation of five noticeable residual deformations of nose that usually appear after primary lip-nose surgery: Alar flattening, low position of alar, widening or narrowing of nostril, and deformation of the upper part of nostril rim. Subjective evaluation was based on the opinion of respondents who were ranged every case depending on own judgment.

[STATISTICAL ANALYSIS] Was performed using Fisher method and Chi-square by Statistica 10.0, StatSoft Inc.

[RESULTS] Approach with general analysis indicated no difference between two methods. Despite of absence of clear differences between two groups we consider the closed rhinoplasty more favorable due to less damage to alar cartilages and no scars inside nostrils.

[CONCLUSIONS] We think that mentioned scarring may complicate secondary rhinoplasty, which is often needed to correct nose deformation.