ABSTRACT
The nasal septum (Figure 36) divides the two nostrils internally. Anteriorly it consists of a cartilage (named the quadrilateral or quadrangular cartilage) which articulates with the crest of the maxilla in the floor of the nose. Superiorly, it is continuous with the upper lateral cartilages of the nasal skeleton. Posteriorly, the quadrangular cartilage meets the bony septum, which is formed from the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid and from the vomer. There are other contributions but these are the most important. The nasal septum is often distorted in shape and misplaced from the mid-line, either from birth or following irregular growth or trauma. Displacements of the septum can cause nasal obstruction requiring corrective surgery.
