• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.22 no.1
• /
• pp.11-16
• /
• 2021

Background: Nasal septal cartilage is used to obtain favorable aesthetic and functional outcomes in rhinoplasty, but is often difficult to harvest or the harvested amount is insufficient. Therefore, the objective of this study is to introduce how to harvest septal cartilage optimally without losing and use harvested cartilage efficiently. Methods: From March 2015 to January 2020, we tried to harvest as much septal cartilage as possible while maintaining the L-strut in 30 patients. A spreader flap and septal rotation suture were used instead of a spreader graft. Also in patients who needed a spreader graft and septal extension graft, a spreader graft was used on one side and a one-piece spreader graft combined with a septal extension graft was performed on the other side. For tip plasty, a columella septal suture was performed first. Postoperative patient satisfaction was assessed using the Rhinoplasty Outcome Examination questionnaire. Results: No serious complications were observed. The patient satisfaction score was 50% or above in 27 patients (90%) and less than 50% in only three patients (10%). The average score was 81.5 points. Conclusion: For septal cartilage deficiency, a spreader flap, the septal rotation suture, or onepiece spreader graft combined with a septal extension graft was used. The nasal tip was sufficiently rotated using the columellar septal suture technique first. These techniques made it possible to obtain good aesthetic outcomes using only septal cartilage, without harvesting other cartilage.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.23 no.3
• /
• pp.119-124
• /
• 2022

Background: Many severe nasal bone fractures present with septal fractures, causing postoperative septal deviation and negatively affecting the patients' quality of life. However, when a septal fracture is absent, it is difficult to predict whether surgical correction can help minimize nasal septal deviation postoperatively. This study determined whether performing closed reduction on even mildly displaced nasal bone fracture could deter the outcome of septal deviation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data of 116 patients aged 21-72 years who presented at the outpatient clinic and emergency room with fractures of nasal bones only without any involvement of the septum from January 2014 to December 2020. Patients were classified into three fracture type groups: A (unilateral), B (bilateral), and C (comminuted with depression). The degree of septal deviation was calculated by measuring the angle between the apex of the most prominent point and the crista galli in the coronal view on computed tomography images. The difference between the angles of the initial septal deviation and that of the follow-up was calculated and expressed as delta (Δ). Results: Closed reduction tended to decrease the postoperative septal deviation in all fracture types, but the values were significantly meaningful only in type A and B fractures. In the surgical group, with type A as the baseline, type B showed a significantly larger Δ value, but type C was not significantly different, although type C showed a smaller Δ value. In the conservative group, with type A as the baseline, the other fracture types presented significantly lower Δ values. Conclusion: For all fracture types, closed reduction significantly decreased the extent to which the nasal septum likely deviated. Therefore, when a patient is reluctant to undergo closed reduction, physicians should address the possible outcomes and prognosis of untreated nasal bone fractures.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.23 no.1
• /
• pp.17-22
• /
• 2022

Background: Reconstruction of large facial defects is challenging as both functional and cosmetic results must be considered. Reconstruction with forehead flaps on the face is advantageous; nonetheless, reconstruction of large defects with forehead flaps alone results in extensive scarring on the donor site. In our study, the results of reconstruction using a combination of forehead flaps and other techniques for large facial defects were evaluated. Methods: A total of 63 patients underwent reconstructive surgery using forehead flaps between February 2005 and June 2020 at our institution. Reconstruction of a large defect with forehead flaps alone has limitations; because of this, 22 patients underwent a combination of procedures and were selected as the subjects of this study. This study was retrospectively conducted by reviewing the patients' medical records. Additional procedures included orbicularis oculi musculocutaneous (OOMC) V-Y advancement flap, cheek advancement flap, nasolabial V-Y advancement flap, grafting, and simultaneous application of two different techniques. Flap survival, complications, and recurrence of skin cancer were analyzed. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using questionnaires. Results: Along with reconstructive surgery using forehead flaps, nasolabial V-Y advancement flap was performed in nine patients, local advancement flap in three, OOMC V-Y advancement flap in two, grafting in five, and two different techniques in three patients. No patient developed flap loss; however, cancer recurred in two patients. The overall patient satisfaction was high. Conclusion: Reconstruction with a combination of forehead flaps and other techniques for large facial defects can be considered as both functionally and cosmetically reliable.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.23 no.3
• /
• pp.111-118
• /
• 2022

Background: Although the zygomatic arch is an important structure determining facial prominence and width, no consensus exists regarding the classification of isolated zygomatic arch fractures, and the literature on this topic is scarce. To date, five papers have subdivided zygomatic arch fractures; however, only one of those proposed classifications includes the injury vector, although the injury vector is one of the most important factors to consider in fracture cases. Furthermore, the only classification that does include the injury vector is too complicated to be suitable for daily practice. In addition, the existing classifications are clinically limited because they do not consider greenstick fractures, nondisplaced fractures, or coronoid impingement. In the present study, we present a rearrangement of the previously published classifications and propose a modified classification of isolated zygomatic arch fractures that maximizes the advantages and overcomes the disadvantages of previous classification systems. Methods: The classification criteria for isolated zygomatic arch fractures described in five previous studies were analyzed, rearranged, and supplemented to generate a modified classification. The medical records, radiographs, and facial bone computed tomography findings of 134 patients with isolated zygomatic arch fractures who visited our hospital between January 2010 and December 2019 were also retrospectively analyzed. Results: We analyzed major classification criteria (displacement, the force vector of the injury, V-shaped fracture, and coronoid impingement) for isolated zygomatic arch fracture from the five previous studies and developed a modified classification by subdividing zygomatic arch fractures. We applied the modified classification to cases of isolated zygomatic arch fracture at our hospital. The surgery rate and injury severity differed significantly from fracture types I to VI. Conclusion: Using our modified classification, we could determine that both the injury force and the injury vector meaningfully influenced the surgery rate and the severity of the injuries.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.23 no.1
• /
• pp.23-28
• /
• 2022

Background: Intermaxillary fixation (IMF) is a technique that allows for the reduction and stabilization of mandibular fractures. Several methods of IMF, such as self-tapping screws or arch bars, have been developed. This study aimed to validate the usefulness of IMF with a self-tapping screw compared to IMF with arch bars with focus on the patients' perspective. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients who were treated for mandibular fractures at our hospital between August 2014 and February 2021. A total of 57 patients were enrolled in this study. Thirteen patients were excluded from the analysis: three patients were lost to follow-up, and 10 patients did not undergo IMF. Finally, 44 patients were analyzed, of which 31 belonged to the arch bar group, and 13 belonged to the screw group. Patient discomfort and pain during IMF application and removal were analyzed using a patient self-assessment questionnaire. The surgeon also assessed oral hygiene, IMF stability, and occlusion. Results: We applied IMF to 34 men (77%) and 10 women (23%). The mean age of the patients was 37.3 years. The most common fracture site was the angle (30%), followed by the parasymphysis (25%), the body (23%), the condyle (11%), and the ramus (11%). Patient discomfort and oral hygiene were statistically favorable in the screw group. The IMF application time was statistically shorter in the screw group (p< 0.001). IMF stability was not statistically different between the two groups. The pain score during IMF removal was lower in the screw group (p< 0.001). Conclusion: Compared to arch bars, IMF screws provide more comfort during the IMF period, help maintain favorable oral hygiene, and have a shorter application time. From the patient's perspective, IMF screws are an excellent alternative to conventional arch bars when applicable.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.23 no.3
• /
• pp.103-110
• /
• 2022

Background: The primary objectives of mandibular surgery are to achieve optimal occlusion, low sensory disturbance, and adequate fixation with early movement. In-depth knowledge of the mandibular structure is required to achieve these goals. This study used computed tomography (CT) to evaluate the mandibular cortical thickness and cancellous space according to age and sex. Methods: We enrolled 230 consecutive patients, aged 20 to 50 years, who underwent CT scanning. The cortex and cancellous space centered around the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) canal were measured at two specific locations: the lingula and second molar region. Statistical analysis of differences according to increasing age and sex was performed. Results: The t-test revealed that the cancellous space and cortical thickness differed significantly with respect to the threshold of 35 years of age. Both cortical thickness and cancellous space in the molar region were negatively correlated with age. Meanwhile, both cortical thickness and cancellous space in the lingula region showed a positive correlation with age. With respect to sex, significant differences in the cancellous space at the molar region and the cortical thickness at the lingula were observed. However, no further statistically significant differences were observed in other variables with respect to sex. The sum of each measurement on the mandibular body reflected the safe distance from the surface of the outer cortex to the IAN canal. The safe distances also showed statistically significant differences between those above and below 35 years of age. Conclusion: Knowledge of the anatomical structure of the mandible and of changes in bone structure is crucial to ensure optimal surgical outcomes and avoid damage to the IAN. CT examination is useful to identify changes in the bone structure, and these should be taken into account in the planning of surgery for older patients.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.22 no.6
• /
• pp.296-302
• /
• 2021

Background: The reconstruction of large full-thickness alar defects requires complex surgical procedures that are usually performed in two stages, with concomitant disadvantages in terms of patient trauma, surgical risk, and cost. This study presents a functional folded nasolabial island flap (FNIF) that can be used to repair large-sized full-thickness alar defects in a straightforward manner. Methods: This retrospective study included seven patients who received a FNIF for a full-thickness alar defect between January 2007 and December 2020. The FNIF is different from the conventional nasolabial flap in that it is folded and twisted to achieve nostril reconstruction with a satisfactory three-dimensional mucosal lining in a single stage. The cosmetic and functional results of FNIF were evaluated by both patients and physicians. Results: The age ranged from 51 to 82 years (mean, 65.6 years). The causes of the defects were squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and trigeminal trophic syndrome. The nostril lining did not collapse, there was no hypertrophic scarring, and air movement through the nostrils on the flap side was normal. Overall, FNIF produced excellent aesthetic and functional outcomes, with minimal patient discomfort. There were no postoperative complications. Conclusion: Compared with existing reconstruction methods for large full-thickness alar defects, FNIF can easily achieve aesthetic and functional success in a single-stage procedure. It provides satisfactory results for both the patient and the surgeon.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.22 no.6
• /
• pp.310-318
• /
• 2021

Background: Transcutaneous lower eyelid approaches are associated with a risk of postoperative scarring depending on the distance between the incision line and the lower eyelid margin. The lower eyelid crease of Caucasians corresponds to a ridge-shaped fold in young Asians. However, this relationship has not been sufficiently evaluated in the latter. The authors, therefore, investigated the location of the scar and the lower eyelid crease or ridge to find the optimal location for the incision line. Methods: This study included 60 out of 139 patients who underwent inferior orbital wall reconstruction through a lower eyelid skin incision between July 2019 and June 2020. According to the location of the scar, the patients were classified into three groups: group A (≥ 2 mm above the lower eyelid crease or ridge), group B (within the lower eyelid crease or ridge to 2 mm above the lower eyelid crease or ridge), and group C (within the lower eyelid crease or ridge to 2 mm below the lower eyelid crease or ridge). At 6 or 12 months after surgery, the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) score was obtained, the distance between the lower eyelid margin and the scar (DMS) and the distance between the margins of the peripheral pupil and the lower eyelid (DMPE) were measured, and the occurrence of ectropion was evaluated. Results: Group B had the lowest POSAS score (A: 22.7 ± 8.0, B: 20.9 ± 2.4, C: 32.5 ± 4.1, p< 0.001). Linear regression analysis showed that the DMS was positively correlated with the POSAS score (p< 0.001) and that the risk of DMPE widening increased as the DMS decreased (p= 0.029). None of the patients had ectropion. Conclusion: When using the transcutaneous approach for inferior orbital wall reconstruction, the optimal incision site is within the lower eyelid crease or ridge to 2 mm above the lower eyelid crease or ridge.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.22 no.6
• /
• pp.319-323
• /
• 2021

Background: Prophylactic antibiotics are used to prevent surgical wound infection; however, proper indications must be followed with careful consideration of the risks and benefits, especially in clean or clean-contaminated wounds. Nasal bone fractures are the most common type of facial bone fracture. The most common method for treating nasal bone fracture is closed reduction, which is performed inside the nasal cavity without an incision. The purpose of this study was to determine the need for antibiotic use in the closed reduction of nasal bone fractures. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using data from the National Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital of the Republic of Korea between 2016 and 2018. The records of patients who underwent closed reduction of nasal bone fracture were reviewed and classified according to sex, age, comorbidities, perioperative antibiotic usage, postoperative complications, nasal packing, anesthesia type, surgeon's specialty, and operation time. Results: Among the 373 patients studied, the antibiotic prescription rate was 67.3%. Just 0.8% of patients were prescribed preoperative antibiotics only, 44.0% were prescribed postoperative antibiotics only, and 22.5% were prescribed both preoperative and postoperative antibiotics. There were no cases that satisfied the definition of "surgical site infection." Furthermore, 2.1% of infection-related complications (e.g., mucosal swelling, synechia, and anosmia) occurred only in the antibiotic usage group. The use of nasal packing, anesthesia type, and surgeon's specialty did not show any difference in infection-related complication rates. Conclusion: According to the study findings, the routine use of perioperative antibiotics is not recommended in uncomplicated nasal bone fracture surgery.

• Archives of Craniofacial Surgery
• /
• v.23 no.1
• /
• pp.29-33
• /
• 2022

Background: There have been many reports of nasal bone fractures in adults, but there are few clinical reports of them in adolescents, although adolescence is the main growth period of the nasal bone. In addition, previous studies have tended to classify and describe child and adolescent nasal fractures in the same category. The aim of this study was to identify the clinical aspects of nasal fractures in adolescents, and to evaluate the characteristics of nasal fractures in the growth period. Methods: Our institution's database was reviewed to extract data on adolescent patients between the age of 13 to 18 who had isolated nasal bone fractures from March 2012 to February 2020. The study excluded patients with other facial fractures, previous facial fractures, or congenital deformities. Results: This study included 243 boys and 26 girls. Interpersonal violence and sports-related accidents accounted for 85 and 79 cases, respectively. There were 128 frontal impact injuries and 132 lateral impact injuries, and 97 patients had accompanying septal fractures. An accompanying septal fracture was present in 36.06% of all patients, but in 51.20% of those who underwent surgery. Conclusion: The prevalence of adolescent nasal fractures was significantly higher in boys, to a greater extent than observed for pediatric or adult fractures. The main causes of fractures were interpersonal violence and sports-related accidents. An explanation for these results is that adolescent boys are more prone to have violent accidents or companionship with active sports than other age or sex groups, leading to substantially more fractures.