Can a Kenalog Injection into the Nose Lead to Cartilage Atrophy?

Question

Can 0.2 ml of kenalog 20 injected 6 months after rhinoplasty dissolve cartilage? Thanks

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

Kenalog may cause dermal atrophy (thinning of the skin), but it will not affect the cartilage.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Kenalog injections are not injected into the cartilage. They are injected into the dermis. Depending upon the concentration that is used, dermal atrophy can occur, so we always use a very light concentration of cortisone to dissolve scar tissue and prevent fluid buildup in the first few months after the surgery. A cortisone shot does not dissolve cartilage and works best only within the first few months after surgery, not years after.

Curt Samlaska, MD · Answer

I did a medline search looking for cause and effect of intralesional kenalog and complications induced in cartilage. I was unable to find even a single case report noting this association. I was able to find literature on decreased cartilage matrix degradation if short-term systemic steroids are used to decrease the inflammatory process induced by injury. I have included a link for you on this. So, to answer your question I would say no, particularly if the injection was performed to shut down inflammation. Also, 0.2 ml at 20 units/cc, is a total of 4 units of Kenalog, which is not a large dose. I hope this helps!

Can a Kenalog Injection into the Nose Lead to Cartilage Atrophy?

Answers (3)

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