Bony superior nasal concha
Concha nasalis superior
- Synonym: Superior nasal turbinate
- Related terms: Superior nasal concha
Definition
The bony superior nasal concha is a curved bony plate that emerges from the inner side of the ethmoidal labyrinth. It extends downward to cover the superior nasal meatus, an important area responsible for air flow and drainage of the posterior ethmoidal air cells. Positioned just above the bony superior nasal concha is the sphenoethmoidal recess, which serves as a significant drainage point for the sphenoid sinus into the nasal cavity.
Similar to the middle and inferior conchae, the bony superior nasal concha plays a vital role in increasing the nasal cavity's surface area. This enlargement facilitates the filtering, moistening, and warming of the air we breathe. Towards the upper part, the bony superior nasal concha, together with the lateral nasal wall above it, the roof of the nasal cavity, and the upper one-third of the nasal septum, forms the olfactory region. This particular area is covered with olfactory neuroepithelium, which is crucial for our sense of smell.
References
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Text written by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2024 IMAIOS.
Standring, S. (2016). ‘Chapter 33: Nose, nasal cavity and Paranasal sinuses’ in Gray’s anatomy: the anatomical basis of clinical practice. (41st ed.) New York NY: Elsevier, pp. 561.
Drake, R.L., Vogl, A.W. and Mitchell, A.W.M. (2009). ‘Chapter 8: Head and Neck’ in Gray’s anatomy for Students. (2nd ed.) Philadelphia PA 19103-2899: Elsevier, pp. 1016-1026.
