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.