Evaluation of Internal Nasal Valve Using Computed Tomography After Le Fort I Osteotomy: A Cross-Sectional Study from a Tertiary Center

Abstract

Aim: Internal nasal valve, which has been the most resistant region of the nasal airway, is affected by Le Fort I osteotomy. This study aimed to investigate the changes in the internal nasal valve (INV) after Le Fort I osteotomy. Methods: A retrospective computed tomography (CT) data of thirty-two patients who underwent Le Fort I surgery alone or combined with mandibular surgery from 2018 to 2020 were evaluated. INV area, INV angle, external nasal valve area, and interalar width were measured at preoperative (T1) and postoperative period (T2) on CT images. Results: CT assessment showed that the INV area was increased for both the right and left side (p1=0.005, p2=0.007). Right and left INV angle was increased from 16.15 +/- 3.24 degrees to 19.63 +/- 5.21 degrees and from 15.93 +/- 3.26 degrees to 19.17 +/- 4.43 degrees respectively (p1=0.000, p2=0.007). Interalar width was increased at the postoperative period (p=0.000). Also, the correlation between interalar width and INV area was found borderline significant (p=0.051, r=0.814). Right and left external nasal valve areas were increased after surgery (p1=0.000, p2=0.003). Conclusion: Maxillary surgery and surgical procedures affecting interalar width have an impact on the internal nasal valve.