Aurora, Colo. — Rhinoplasties using synthetic implants may increase the risk of infection, and thus follow-up procedures, according to Colorado researchers.
A study led by researchers at the University of Colorado Hospital examined 662 rhinoplasty procedures conducted between 1999 and 2008, 151 of which used implants, Bloomberg.com reports. Nineteen patients, all of whom received implants, developed infections.
About 20 percent of patients who received porous high-density polyethylene (pHDPE) developed infection, as did about 5 percent of those who received expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), according to study authors.
“The use of pHDPE and ePTFE implants in rhinoplasty is associated with an increased risk of postoperative infection,” the authors concluded. “Caution is recommended when using pHDPE in rhinoplasty, especially as a columellar strut, although there may be situations in which the increased risk is acceptable.”
The findings were published online Aug. 27 in Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery.
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