Comparison of piezosurgery, percutaneous and endonasal continuous osteotomy techniques on a caprine skull model

Publication date: Available online 4 September 2018

Source: Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery

Author(s): Sevgi Kurt Yazar, Merdan Serin, Ibrahim Taskin Rakici, Selami Serhat Sirvan, Fatih Irmak, Memet Yazar

Abstract

Background

Osteotomy is a crucial step in rhinoplasty which can have a significant impact on the outcome. In addition to previous percutaneous (external perforating) and endonasal (internal) approaches, piezosurgery has been used in rhinoplasty practice since 2007. This experimental model was planned to compare the three osteotomy techniques.

Materials and Methods

This study was performed on a caprine skull osteotomy model. Three groups were created from 12 animals which consist of endonasal continuous, external perforating and piezosurgery groups. All the groups were evaluated for the bone gaps, comminuted fractures as well as nasal mucosa damage.

Results

There were no comminuted fractures and mucosal defects in any of the samples in the piezo osteotomy group. The average amount of bone gap at the osteotomy site and the nasal mucosa damage was lower in the piezo group compared with the other groups. The time required for the osteotomy was shorter in the endonasal group, similar in external and piezo group.

Conclusion

New techniques are constantly being developed to achieve better results in rhinoplasty. As a natural consequence to technological developments new devices are being introduced to rhinoplasty practice. Piezo is one of such devices. We have found that piezo osteotomy has resulted in lower amounts nasal mucosal damage and comminuted fractures. We believe that piezo can be safely be used in rhinoplasty practice until newer and more reliable technologies are being developed.