The Columellar Auto-Strut Technique: A Refined Approach to Nasal Tip Stabilization in Septorhinoplasty.

BACKGROUND

The Columellar Auto-Strut Technique (CAST) is a refined modification of the Tongue-in-Groove (TIG) method, designed to provide stable nasal tip support while maintaining aesthetic flexibility. This study evaluates the clinical outcomes of CAST in septorhinoplasty (SRP).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 78 patients who underwent SRP using CAST. Nasal tip projection (Goode ratio), nasolabial angle (NLA), and subjective tip stiffness were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively.

RESULTS

The mean NLA increased from 84.3° ± 5.2° to 99.8° ± 4.8° (p < 0.001). The Goode ratio improved from 0.58 ± 0.06 to 0.63 ± 0.01 p = 0.003). The mean VAS score for nasal tip stiffness was 7.1 ± 1.1. No significant cases of nasal tip deviation or nostril asymmetry were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The CAST technique offers stable nasal tip support with predictable outcomes, preserving both function and aesthetics. Further studies with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up are needed to validate its effectiveness in routine SRP.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

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