Cone-Beam Computed Tomography: A User-Friendly, Practical Roadmap to the Planning and Execution of Every Rhinoplasty—A 5-Year Review

Abstract

Background: Cone-beam computed tomography has recently rapidly developed worldwide as a versatile and convenient alternative to traditional computed tomography for imaging of the maxillofacial region. However, most surgeons performing rhinoplasty are surprisingly unfamiliar with it, in both the plastic surgery and ear, nose, and throat communities. Methods: The broad clinical experience of a single center over the past 5 years is reviewed. The many applications of cone-beam computed tomography to primary and secondary rhinoplasty are analyzed regarding septum, turbinates, nasal bones, skin thickness, and other issues. The importance of a paradigm shift from a two-dimensional to a three-dimensional approach in image reconstruction is demonstrated, together with the value of surface contour enhancement. Results: Cone-beam computed tomography has a multitude of practical applications highly relevant to rhinoplasty. The surface image will strengthen aesthetic analysis, and the detailed preview of bony and functional anatomy will facilitate surgical planning. Cone-beam computed tomography serves as a roadmap to plan and execute rhinoplasties more predictably and efficiently. The availability of spatial views and accurate detail, together with the possibility of easy, accurate measuring, offers a plenitude of potential applications. Conclusions: Cone-beam computed tomography is a user-friendly, quick technique with abundant advantages in planning any rhinoplasty. It causes the patient no inconvenience and has very few, if any, drawbacks, with these being limited to radiation exposure and limited cost.