Custom-Made Nasal Retainer Using Latex Nelaton Urine Catheter After the Cheiloplasty

Abstract

Nasal retainers are common tools used in managing patients with cleft lip. The significance of nasal retainer in preventing nostril collapse or stenosis to maintain a symmetrical nose after the surgical procedures is already well known. We came up with a way to create a nasal retainer using a latex nelaton catheter. Custom-made nasal retainer using latex nelaton catheter was used postoperatively on a 10-month-old infant with median cleft lip after cheiloplasty. In postoperative day 7, her nostrils were large enough for premade silicone nasal retainer to fit. She was discharged with instructions given to use the retainer for 6 months. Custom-made nasal retainer can be used as an alternative to premade nasal retainers for patients with wide columella or small nostril cavities, or who cannot afford premade retainers.