Morphological and morphometric study of the cartilaginous framework of the dorsum and tip of the nose among Egyptian populations: a cadaveric study

BACKGROUND: Success or failure of rhinoplasty depends mainly on the awareness of the surgeon with the construction of the nasal cartilaginous framework and the knowledge of the morphology and different dimensions of these cartilages. The current study aimed at evaluation of the morphology of the nasal cartilages and to address their different measurements as well as observation of anatomical variations of these cartilages and elucidation of their implications in rhinoplasty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty adult human cadaveric noses, males and females aged 20-70 years were used in the current study. The specimens were dissected; cartilages were exposed and examined morphologically for shape, parts and attachments. Different nasal cartilage measurements were done. RESULTS: The examination of nasal cartilage revealed that the mean length of upper lateral cartilage was variable. The mean width and thickness were 12.8 ± 1.29 mm and 1.34 ± 0.14 mm, respectively. The mean length, width and thickness of alar cartilage were assessed. Angle of divergence was observed to be 23-44°. Statistically, there were no significant differences between genders. CONCLUSIONS: Data obtained from this study confirmed the anatomical varia-tions of the nasal cartilages among the Egyptians and confirmed the differences with several ethnic groups. This has important surgical implications giving the attention required during different techniques in rhinoplasty in order to maintain dorsal aesthetic lines of the nose and proper respiratory function.