Complication of rib cartilage graft 8 months post-op, what do you think is the problem?

Question

Hello, I have done rhinoplasty with rib cartilage grafting 8 months ago, the doctor removed the cartilage from the 5th rib partially. And now, after 8 months, I still can't sleep on my right side and I have pain during activity, and by contracting the right pectoral muscle, I get neuralgia and stiffness of the trapezius on the same side. What do you think is the problem?

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If the epicenter of the pain is your scar, depending on your examination, sometimes dilute steroid injections in the area can loosen up scar tissue and decrease pain. I hope this helps. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Serkan Kaya Ekinci, MD · Answer

I would re-evaluate the patient to see if the patient's complaints about neuralgia were pressing on any nerves after the surgery.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Cartlidge is not very vascular tissue.
This can potentially cost a healing process to be a little slower.
Surrounding tissues with better blood supply should heal faster, and what you describe.
I don’t think there’s much to do from a surgical perspective.
Some people will have discomfort for quite a while after certain procedures.
Some people perceive surgical recovery differently as well.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Complication of rib cartilage graft 8 months post-op, what do you think is the problem?

Answers (3)