Septal nasal cartilage

Septal Nasal Cartilage

File:Gray's Anatomy plate 45.png

Illustration of the septal nasal cartilage from Gray's Anatomy

The Septal Nasal Cartilage is a crucial component of the human anatomy, specifically within the nasal cavity. It is a flat, quadrangular piece of cartilage that forms the anterior part of the nasal septum, the structure that separates the two nostrils.

Structure

The septal nasal cartilage is located in the midline of the nose. It is attached to the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone superiorly and the vomer posteriorly. Inferiorly, it is connected to the anterior nasal spine of the maxilla. The anterior margin, thicker than the posterior, is connected to the lateral nasal cartilage and the greater alar cartilage.

Function

The primary function of the septal nasal cartilage is to support the nose and direct airflow. It separates the left and right airways in the nose, creating two separate nostrils. This separation allows for the regulation of airflow and enhances the sense of smell by directing air to the olfactory epithelium.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities or injuries to the septal nasal cartilage can lead to a condition known as a deviated septum, which can cause breathing difficulties, snoring, and sleep apnea. Treatment for this condition may involve a surgical procedure known as septoplasty, which aims to straighten the nasal septum.

See Also

• Nasal septum
• Cartilage
• Nasal cavity
• Deviated septum