Low-temperature radiofrequency reshaping of cartilage for nose reconstruction

Cartilage Remodeling Using Low-Temperature Radiofrequency for Facial Reconstruction

Not applicable Interventional Indiana University · NCT07032675

This study will test whether a Vivaer low‑temperature radiofrequency device can reshape a patient's own nasal or ear cartilage to help with cosmetic or functional septorhinoplasty.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIndiana University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations6 sites (Indianapolis, Indiana and 5 other locations)
Trial IDNCT07032675 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This interventional study uses the Vivaer low‑temperature radiofrequency (LTRF) device to reshape autologous nasal or auricular cartilage harvested during septorhinoplasty. Investigators will treat ex‑vivo cartilage specimens, record how many LTRF applications are needed, and measure quantitative changes in length and angulation. They will compare physician cosmetic satisfaction and patient‑reported nasal obstruction (NOSE) scores to cases managed with standard septorhinoplasty techniques, track total operative time, and monitor adverse events. Procedures and follow‑up will occur at Indiana University Health hospitals in Indianapolis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults aged 18 or older planning cosmetic or functional septorhinoplasty (with or without auricular cartilage harvest) who have not had prior septorhinoplasty, have no prior head or neck radiation or septal perforation, and are medically cleared for surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with a previous septorhinoplasty, prior head or neck radiation, a septal perforation, or who are medically ineligible for septorhinoplasty are excluded and unlikely to benefit from this approach.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this technique could let surgeons reshape cartilage more predictably during septorhinoplasty, potentially improving cosmetic and breathing outcomes and reducing operative time.

How similar studies have performed: Low‑temperature radiofrequency is used for intranasal soft‑tissue remodeling, but using LTRF for ex‑vivo cartilage reshaping in septorhinoplasty is relatively novel with limited prior clinical data.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients 18 years and older undergoing functional septorhinoplasty or cosmetic septorhinoplasty, with or without auricular cartilage harvest

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who have had a prior septorhinoplasty
* Patients who have received prior head and neck radiation
* Patients with a septal perforation
* Patients who are medically ineligible to undergo septorhinoplasty.

Where this trial is running

Indianapolis, Indiana and 5 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Nasal Valve CollapseNose Enhancementlow-temperature radio-frequencynasal valve collapseseptorhinoplastyseptoplastyrhinoplastycartilage reshaping
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.