severely comminuted nasal bone fracture outcome via closed reduction. Can you explain what takes place?

Question

What happens if you have a severely comminuted nasal fracture, the nasal bones have splintered into several segments, and it is repaired through closed reduction. I am trying to spacially visualize this in my head what would the fragments be doing, how is it that closed reduction works on a fracture that is simple or just a few larger pieces versus a case in which there are many small fragments of bone, I don't understand the bio mechanical actions at work, why does the bone "pop" back into place?

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Multiple small nasal fracture segments are very hard to put together with closed reduction after nasal bone trauma. Fortunately, there is no significant bone loss after fracture heals. However, lumps and irregularities are frequently present months after swelling subsides. In order to correct secondary nose  deformity, full rhinoplasty including reshaping and cutting nasal bones, correction of nose cartilages and, very frequently, nasal septum is needed. About 50% of patients will need this type of surgery even after well executed closed reduction after fracture.You should seek a consult of an experienced board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options. Good luck.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Trauma to the nose  can cause a displaced or non-displaced nasal fracture. Just because the bones are comminuted doesn't have to be straightened unless there is a deviation of the nose when you look at it in the mirror. If the nose  has been displaced, it can be put back into its normal straight position with either closed reduction or open reduction of the nasal fracture. In our practice, we prefer open reduction nasal fracture with medial and lateral osteotomies to realign all  of the nasal bones properly. This is accomplished with a closed rhinoplasty approach whereby all the incisions were made on the inside of the nose. digital computer imaging would be helpful to understand what can be accomplished with the procedure upon your nose. For many before and after rhinoplasty examples, please see the link and the video below

Dennis Barek, MD (retired) · Answer

The  fragments of bone usually have some attachment to the periosteum so they are not free floating. They can be manipulated and held with a splint. There is skin outside and mucosa inside which, if not damaged, also will hold the fragments.If the septum is intact for support then a closed reduction is the first step. After a year, if any issues persist, then some type of rhinoplasty may be needed to touch things up.

severely comminuted nasal bone fracture outcome via closed reduction. Can you explain what takes place?

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severely comminuted nasal bone fracture outcome via closed reduction. Can you explain what takes place?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.