Functional outcomes after lateral crural J-flap repair of external nasal valve collapse.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the lateral crural J-flap technique in the surgical repair of external nasal valve collapse with standardized and validated outcome measurements. METHODS: Prospective data were gathered on consecutive cases, performed by a single surgeon between 2007 and 2010, of adult patients who underwent a lateral crural approach to repair of external nasal valve collapse. Data were collected on diagnosis, surgical outcomes, and complications. Outcome measures included the Nasal Obstructive Symptom Evaluation and the Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation. RESULTS: Fifteen patients were included in the study. Their follow-ups ranged from 9 to 13 months. All patients had statistically significant improvements in Nasal Obstructive Symptom Evaluation scores. There was no significant change in perceived nasal appearance after surgery as measured by the Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation. There were no surgical complications. CONCLUSIONS: The lateral crural J-flap approach to repair of external nasal valve collapse is a technically straightforward and relatively safe procedure. The efficacy is excellent at the 1-year follow-up examination.