Fracture patterns of the nasal septum.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate fracture patterns of the nasal septum. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional cadaveric study. SETTING Synthes research laboratories, Philadelphia, PA. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Eighteen cadavers were divided into three groups. Group A was subjected to low-level force administered to the nasal tip. Group B underwent moderate-level force and group C high-level force. Cadavers subsequently underwent dissection of the nose and nasal septum. RESULTS Fracture patterns were apparent and related to the force applied. Fracture patterns were classified into three types depending on the location and extent. Group A was the most variable. Three cadavers were classified as type 1, two as type 2, and one as type 3. The average amount of force required to produce a fracture in this group was 100 N. Group B cadavers all developed type 3 fractures. Group C cadavers primarily developed type 3 fractures except for one that developed a type 1. Fractures were further classified in regard to the septum being displaced off the nasal spine. CONCLUSION Based on our observation, we conclude that fracture patterns of the nasal septum do exist and appear to be related to the amount of force sustained.