Does K Wire Have to Always Be Used when Using Rib Cartilage Grafts for Rhinoplasty ?

Rib grafts are most commonly used for revision rhinoplasty (nasal surgery on patients who have had prior surgery). They provide excellent structural support for the nose, but are well known to warp (bend) gradually over time. A K-wire is a surgical wire that can be inserted into the graft to reduce bending over time. Other techniques utilized to reduce warping include harvesting the mid-portion of the graft, crushing the cartilage, or dicing the cartilage into multiple small pieces that are usually wrapped in temporalis facia (connective tissue from the temple). Discuss the options and differences with your surgeon. Good luck.

The K-wire is used to secure the rib cartilage in a desired location during a rhinoplasty.  Cartilage can be secured with sutures as well.  It is up the surgeon's preference which he prefers.  There are times when a K-wire is preferred.  In reconstructive rhinoplasties where major work is required to rebuild a nose from trauma or cancer a K-wire is the strongest option for support of rib cartilage to build a foundation.  


I hope this helps!