Wedge resection combined with 3D-printed polycaprolactone mesh for caudal septal deviation

BACKGROUND: Biocompatibility and stability of three-dimensional printed polycaprolactone mesh grafts for nasal surgery are proven in both animal and human models. However, their safety and durability as batten grafts for caudal septal deviation has not been documented. This study was designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of three-dimensional printed polycaprolactone mesh batten graft in septoplasty using the wedge resection technique for the correction of caudal septal deviation. METHODS: This retrospective study reviewed the medical records of 20 patients aged ≥ 18 years with caudal septal deviation who underwent septoplasty with wedge resection and three-dimensional printed polycaprolactone mesh graft from a tertiary medical center in South Korea, between December 1, 2019 and May 31, 2021. Those without nasal obstruction before surgery or with a short follow-up period (< 28 days) were excluded from the survey analysis. RESULTS: Of the 20 patients (mean age, 48.0 [range, 19–65] years), 17 (85.0%) were male, and three (15.0%) were female. A significant change was noted in the mean nasal obstruction symptom evaluation score (68.2 vs. 15.0, P < .001) in the 17 patients included in the analysis. Postoperative endoscopic evaluation revealed a straight septum in 19/20 (95.0%) patients, and no complications were noted in the postoperative follow-up period of up to 364 days. CONCLUSIONS: The three-dimensional printed polycaprolactone nasal mesh is safe and provides adequate support to resist the intrinsic memory of the cartilage of the caudal septum. In addition to nasal surgeries, it has great potential as a graft in other reconstructive surgeries. Trial registration Retrospectively registered.