Powered Micro-saw Versus Conventional Osteotome for Septorhinoplasty: A Prospective, Double-Blind, Comparative Study.

BACKGROUND

Various powered instruments are used to perform osteotomy. A consensus on the best method has not been established due to discrepancies in previous studies. This study aimed to compare the conventional osteotome and a powered micro-saw during septorhinoplasty.

METHODS

The single-center, prospective cohort study included 60 patients that were grouped into two groups of 30 each. Group 1 underwent open septorhinoplasty using a conventional osteotome, and group 2 underwent open septorhinoplasty using a powered micro-saw. Postoperative edema, ecchymosis, pain, and nasal blockage were compared between groups. Preoperative and postoperative (6 months) functional and aesthetic outcomes were compared based on FACE-Q, SNOT-22, and T-NOSE scores.

RESULTS

There were not any differences in age, gender, follow-up duration, the Brinkman index, or level of education between groups. Postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in group 2 on d 1 and d 3 postsurgery. Nasal blockage scores were significantly higher in group 1 on d 3 and d 7 postsurgery. Edema and ecchymosis scores were similar in both groups at all time points. Preoperative and postoperative (6 months) functional and aesthetic outcomes were also similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Osteotomy using a powered micro-saw is an effective technique that results in less postoperative pain and nasal blockage than when using conventional osteotome. Early postoperative period edema and ecchymosis scores and long-term functional and aesthetic outcomes are similar when using a powered micro-saw and a conventional osteotome. Osteotomy using a powered micro-saw can be considered an alternative to using a conventional osteotome.

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