Nasal Reconstruction in Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis: A Two Decade Review

Background: Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) leads to progressive destruction of the nasal tissues resulting varying degrees of saddle deformity and nasal obstruction. Reconstructive techniques are numerous, but there are no large series reporting their results. Objective: This study sought to measure complications and outcomes after rhinoplasty for GPA. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of 42 patients with GPA who underwent nasal reconstruction of saddle nose deformity between 2005 and 2019 using primarily costal cartilage and soft tissue grafts. Results: Thirty-six patients met the criteria for inclusion. All were followed for a minimum of 12 months. Six patients required revision surgery due to infection or GPA flare ups. Five patients had complications. All patients were given a questionnaire at 12 months to rate their degree of satisfaction with their appearance and breathing. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that the use of strong cartilage grafts and the timing of surgery result in improvement in breathing and appearance after rhinoplasty in patients with GPA. Clinical Trial Registration number: REB # 21-125.