The endotine: a new biodegradable fixation device for endoscopic forehead lifts

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Current scalp fixation techniques for endoscopic forehead lifts lack universal acceptance.
• Complications like alopecia and regression of elevation are associated with existing methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the preliminary results of the Endotine 3.5 forehead device, a novel biodegradable fixation device.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of the Endotine 3.5 device in endoscopic forehead lift procedures.

Main Methods:

• The Endotine 3.5 device, featuring a cranial post and five tines for scalp tissue engagement, was used in 9 patients.
• Postoperative follow-up ranged from 6 to 8 months, with evaluations for ease of use, palpability, pain, and wound healing.

Main Results:

• The Endotine 3.5 device provided secure fixation without complications in all patients.
• Application time was under 2 minutes per side; however, the device was often palpable with moderate sensitivity.

Conclusions:

• Preliminary findings suggest the Endotine 3.5 forehead device offers rapid, secure fixation, mitigating complications seen with other techniques.
• A second-generation device with a faster-dissolving polymer was developed due to patient-reported palpability up to 24 weeks.
• Further research is necessary to determine the long-term efficacy of this biodegradable fixation device.