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Thermoplastic splint for use after nasal fracture
1University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center, Camden.
Summary
This study introduces a new, cost-effective thermoplastic nasal splint for external nasal splinting. The novel nasal splint performs comparably to commercial options while being significantly more affordable.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Devices
Background:
- External nasal splints are crucial post-operative devices in plastic surgery.
- Current commercially available thermoplastic nasal splints vary in cost and efficacy.
- There is a need for affordable and effective nasal splinting solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a novel thermoplastic nasal splint.
- To compare the performance of the new splint against existing commercial options.
Main Methods:
- A new thermoplastic nasal splint was designed and fabricated.
- The splint was applied to 16 patients between November 1992 and July 1993.
- Patient and surgeon satisfaction were assessed.
Main Results:
- The novel splint demonstrated performance equal to or better than commercial alternatives.
- The cost of the new splint was approximately $0.50 per unit, significantly lower than commercial splints ($5-$10).
- The external splinting method proved reliable and satisfactory for patients and the surgeon.
Conclusions:
- The developed thermoplastic nasal splint is a reliable, effective, and highly cost-efficient alternative for external nasal splinting.
- The splint offers a satisfactory patient experience, with added benefits of being colorful and unobtrusive.