Nasal septum

separator of the left and right airways in the nose

The nasal septum separates the left and right airways in the nose and divides the two nostrils.

Bones and cartilages of septum of nose. Right side.

Composition

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The fleshy external end of the nasal septum is sometimes also called columella.

The nasal septum is composed of three structures:

Clinical significance

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The nasal septum can depart from the centreline of the nose; this condition is known as a deviated septum. Injury, excessive nose-picking and cocaine usage can cause septum perforations, or holes developing in the septum.

An operation to the nasal septum is known as a septoplasty.

Additional images

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