A 6-YEAR EXPERIENCE WITH THE USE OF EXPANDED POLYTETRAFLUOROETHYLENE IN RHINOPLASTY

To date, there are few published large series within the literature on the use of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex) in rhinoplasty . This retrospective study, based on chart and photographic reviews, s erves to contribute a hear experience (mean patient follow-up period, 17.5 months) with the alloplast in nasal surgery amassed by one surgeo n. The same technique was used in all the 189 patients reviewed, who r eceived 211 procedures. The 189 patients, 44 male and 145 female and f rom 15 to 70 years of age, were reviewed 3 months to 6 years after Gor e-Tex implantation rhinoplasties. The results were assessed according to the follow-up notes in the chart reflecting patients' and surgeon's comments and full preoperative and postoperative photographic documen tation. Patient satisfaction was expressed with respect to aesthetic a nd functional outcome in all cases. Patient impressions were verified by critical assessment during follow-up examination. The implants show ed excellent stability and tissue tolerance. Complications requiring r emoval occurred in 2.7 percent of implants placed. The authors are of the opinion that, in rhinoplasty, with the exception of the nasal tip, columella, or problems in which corrections would require rigidity of the grafted or implanted material, the Gore-Tex alloplast is an excel lent alternative to autografts. Nasal tip or columellar sites do not r ender adequate soft-tissue cover, allowing the implant to rest close t o the surgical incision. Because this creates additional risk of impla nt extrusion, such locations were avoided in the series of patients pr esented.