Histologic Comparison of Ultra-fine Diced Cartilage and Conventionally Diced Cartilage Wrapped in Fascia in a Rabbit model.

Background: Ultra-fine dicing, which reduces cartilage particles to less than 0.2 mm, has gained attention for producing dense implants with reduced distortion. However, concerns about long-term viability and cell damage due to extensive manipulation remain. We aimed to compare the histological outcomes of ultra-fine and conventionally diced cartilage wrapped in fascia in a rabbit model, providing insight into their potential use in rhinoplasty.

Methods: Ten New Zealand White rabbits were divided into two groups. Cartilage was harvested from both ears, with one graft diced into 1-2 mm pieces and the other into pieces less than 0.2 mm. Both types were wrapped in fascia and implanted subcutaneously. Histological analyses using hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome, and Safranin-O staining were performed at 8 weeks and 6 months postoperatively. The percentages of cartilage cells and dead space were compared between groups.

Results: Results demonstrated significantly higher cartilage cell density in the ultra-fine diced group at both 8 weeks and 6 months than that in the conventionally diced group. The ultra-fine diced cartilage also exhibited less dead space and maintained a dense composition of type II collagen, suggesting a resilient and natural implant material.

Conclusions: Ultra-fine dicing resulted in superior histological outcomes, with higher cartilage cell density and less fibrosis compared to those observed with conventional methods. These findings suggest that ultra-fine diced cartilage may be an effective method for achieving natural and stable results in rhinoplasty. However, further research involving human participants is needed to confirm these results. Conclusions: Ultra-fine dicing of cartilage provides superior histological outcomes, with higher cell density and less fibrosis compared to conventional methods. This technique may offer plastic surgeons a more effective option for achieving stable, natural results in rhinoplasty, pending further human studies.