Dorsal Onlay with Diced Homologous Processed Rib Cartilage Grafts.

BACKGROUND: Diced cartilage wrapped in fascia or modeled with tissue sealant has successfully been used as dorsal onlay grafts in rhinoplasty. The use of autologous material introduces the risk of donor site morbidity, and sometimes availability is limited.

METHODS: We present a series of nine cases that were performed using diced irradiated homologous rib cartilage as an onlay graft.

RESULTS: Good functional and cosmetic outcomes were achieved in all nine patients, and no significant resorption was seen after a mean follow-up of 20 months.

CONCLUSION: Homologous diced cartilage grafts are an attractive and well-tolerated alternative. The use of diced homologous material does not seem to lead to significant resorption. These results must be reproduced in larger series.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .