OSTEOCARTILAGINOUS FLAP TECHNIQUE FOR ACQUIRED AND CONGENITAL SADDLE NOSE DEFORMITIES

This paper illustrates the objective possible applications of the oste ocartilaginous flap technique in solving the functional and aesthetic problems associated with saddle nose deformities, the pathogenesis of which essentially relates to: (1) congenital saddle noses; (2) post-tr aumatic saddle noses; and (3) saddle noses resulting from previous sur gery on the septum. This technique is suggested as an alternative to a combination of other methods (such as septoplasty, bone, or cartilage grafts) to restore the inhalatory function of the internal nasal valv e and the integrity of the nasal support structures using locally avai lable tissues. The authors prefer to use this technique in the treatme nt of serious congenital or acquired saddle nose deformities and to as sign composite grafts a supplementary function only. The different sta ges of this surgical procedure are analyzed and the results are assess ed during short- and medium-term follow-up.