An Alternative Method for Midvault Restoration: "T-Splay Graft"

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Rhinoplasty Techniques
• Nasal Anatomy

Background:

• The internal nasal valve is critical in rhinoplasty.
• Standard techniques like spreader grafts may not always achieve the desired splay effect.
• Midvault collapse is a risk that necessitates robust reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and describe the novel "T-splay graft" technique.
• To provide an alternative for midvault restoration and augmenting the upper lateral cartilage splay.
• To address cases with a risk of midvault collapse.

Main Methods:

• A septal tunnel is created for cartilage graft placement.
• Bilateral pockets are formed in the inferior mucosa of the upper lateral cartilages.
• A harvested cartilage graft is inserted horizontally through the septum into the pockets to create dorsal convexity.

Main Results:

• The T-splay graft successfully expanded the internal nasal valve angle.
• Desired dorsal aesthetic lines were achieved with normal anatomical structure.
• The technique effectively created the intended splay effect in the upper lateral cartilages.

Conclusions:

• The T-splay graft technique allows for directed tension and enhanced cartilage splay.
• This method is a highly effective alternative for specific rhinoplasty cases.
• It offers improved functional and aesthetic outcomes for the internal nasal valve and midvault.