Bone
Nasal bone
Paired bony bridge above the nasal cartilages
High-yield
Nasal bones are among the most frequently fractured facial bones. A nasal injury may also affect the septum and nearby facial structures.
Overview
The nasal bones meet in the midline to form the upper bridge of the nose. They connect the forehead and maxillary framework to the cartilaginous lower nose. Their exposed position makes fractures common.
Reference facts
- Bone type
- Small flat facial bone
- Key landmarks
- External surface forming the bridge; internal groove for the anterior ethmoidal nerve
- Articulations
- Frontal bone, ethmoid, maxilla and the opposite nasal bone
Clinical correlation
A septal hematoma separates septal cartilage from its nourishing perichondrium. If it persists, cartilage can become damaged and the nasal bridge can collapse into a saddle-shaped deformity.
Frequently asked questions
What type of bone is the nasal bone?
The nasal bone is a small flat facial bone bone.
What does the nasal bone articulate with?
The nasal bone articulates with the frontal bone, ethmoid, maxilla and the opposite nasal bone.
What are the key landmarks of the nasal bone?
External surface forming the bridge; internal groove for the anterior ethmoidal nerve.