Radiographic and Anatomic Characterization of the Nasal Septal Swell Body

Authors:
  • TSThomas Sanford
    Thomas Sanford
  • CJChristine Janney
    Christine Janney
  • MCMargaret Cooper
    Margaret Cooper
  • RSRaj Sindwani
    Raj Sindwani
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Abstract
The nasal septal swell body (SB) is a widened region of the anterior nasal septum. This mucosal-lined swelling is readily identifiable on anterior rhinoscopy, nasal endoscopy, and on sinonasal imaging studies. Little is known about the structure or function of the SB. Samples of the SB mucosa taken during nasal surgery have offered some insight into the composition of the SB, which contains both glandular and vasoerectile tissues.1 Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of the nasal cavity have documented a significant decrease in the size of the anterior nasal septum following topical decongestion.2 A better understanding of the SB and its function could prove clinically relevant, given the close proximity of this structure to the region of the internal nasal valve3 and its possible influence airflow through its vasoactive properties. Surgical management of anatomic nasal obstruction due to extreme turbinate hypertrophy or septal deviation has become commonplace and has been shown to improve nasal airflow.4

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