External osteotomy in rhinoplasty: Piezosurgery vs osteotome

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Otolaryngology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Rhinoplasty outcomes depend on precise osteotomy and nasal bone reshaping.
• Choosing the right surgical tool is crucial for optimizing technique and results.
• Post-traumatic rhinoplasty presents unique challenges in achieving desired aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of ultrasound osteotomy (Piezosurgery Medical Device) versus traditional osteotomy in rhinoplasty.
• To evaluate postoperative outcomes, including pain, swelling, bruising, and mucosal injury.
• To assess the potential of piezosurgery to minimize common rhinoplasty complications.

Main Methods:

• Prospective randomized pilot study involving 22 patients undergoing post-traumatic rhinoplasty.
• Forty-four lateral osteotomies were performed: 12 with a traditional osteotome (control) and 10 with Piezosurgery Medical Device (experimental).
• Postoperative pain, edema, ecchymosis, and endoscopic mucosal injury were evaluated.

Main Results:

• The Piezosurgery group experienced significantly lower postoperative pain, edema, and ecchymosis (p<0.05).
• Endoscopic evaluation revealed fewer mucosal injuries in the experimental group (p<0.05).
• Bleeding, nasal pyramid symmetry, and external scarring were comparable between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Piezosurgery Medical Device enables safe lateral osteotomies in rhinoplasty.
• This technique shows preliminary potential in reducing common rhinoplasty complications like pain, swelling, and mucosal damage.
• Further research is warranted to confirm these findings in larger patient cohorts.