Middle concha

Middle Concha

The Middle Concha, also known as the Middle Turbinate, is a part of the nasal anatomy that plays a crucial role in the process of respiration. It is one of the three pairs of conchae in the nasal cavity, the other two being the superior concha and the inferior concha.

Structure

The Middle Concha is a thin, spongy, bony plate, curved into a spiral form. It projects into the nasal cavity, extending horizontally along the lateral wall of the nasal cavity. The Middle Concha is smaller than the inferior concha, but larger than the superior concha.

Function

The primary function of the Middle Concha is to regulate the flow of air through the nasal cavity. It helps to increase the surface area of the nasal cavity, thereby enhancing the warming and humidification of air before it reaches the lungs. The Middle Concha also aids in the process of olfaction, or the sense of smell, by directing airflow to the olfactory epithelium.

Clinical Significance

The Middle Concha is often involved in various nasal conditions. For instance, an enlarged Middle Concha can lead to a condition known as concha bullosa, which can cause nasal obstruction and sinusitis. Furthermore, the Middle Concha is often a site of interest in endoscopic sinus surgery due to its proximity to the sinus ostia.

See Also

• Nasal cavity
• Concha (anatomy)
• Superior concha
• Inferior concha
• Olfaction
• Concha bullosa
• Endoscopic sinus surgery