Technical Description
The T-graft can be applied in all types of rhinoplasty. In our series we
used the T-graft exclusively in open approach rhinoplasty, so far in 54
patients (39 females, 15 males) ranging from 18 – 61 years. Preferably
the T-graft was harvested from nasal septal- or rib cartilage. Auricular
cartilage is unattractive because it is too floppy and curved to achieve
an accurate and successful outcome. The dimensions of the graft are
depending on the individual needs. In our series the average size of the
T-graft was 25 mm (extension-strut component) and 20-30 mm (extension-
spreader component). The procedure is performed in general anesthesia.
Local infiltration of the nose, approximately 3.5 cc, is performed with
lidocaine 2% and adrenalin 1:80.000. Topically 200 mg of cocaine is
applied in the nasal cavity before surgery is started. Per operative
amoxicillin/clavulanic acid 1000/200 mg is administered intravenously,
which is continued orally for 1 week postoperatively (500/125 three
times daily). At the end of surgery the nose is lightly packed with a 2
cm gauze with antibiotic ointment for a duration of 24 - 48 hours, and
dressed with tape and an external splint for one week.