[Efficient use of septum cartilage in correcting secondary nose deformity of unilateral cleft].

OBJECTIVE

To develop an efficient maneuver of septum cartilage in correcting secondary nose deformity of unilateral cleft.

METHODS

Through a C-shaped incision around the nostril on the cleft side, the cartilages of bilateral nasal alar were released and the septum cartilage was harvested. The septum graft was shaped into a single band and implanted between the septum and the alar cartilage on the cleft side to support the columella, the tip, and the nasal alar at the same time.

RESULTS

15 cases were treated and followed up for one year with satisfactory outcome and stabilized effect with no oblique columella, straight nasal tip, and symmetric nostril.

CONCLUSION

Application of septum cartilage in an integral band takes advantages of the elasticity of the cartilage. Due to the limit amount of septum cartilage, it is very simple and efficient to correct secondary nose deformity of unilateral cleft with an integral band of cartilage.