Nasal bone
Os nasale
Paired small oblong bones that meet in the midline to form the bony bridge of the nose.
Overview
The two nasal bones lie side by side between the frontal processes of the maxillae. Each is thick and narrow above, where it articulates with the nasal part of the frontal bone at the nasion (frontonasal suture), and thin and wide below, where it gives attachment to the lateral nasal (upper lateral) cartilage. Posteriorly they rest on the nasal spine of the frontal bone and the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid. A small foramen transmits a vein, and a groove on the internal surface carries the external nasal branch of the anterior ethmoidal nerve.
The lower, external part of the nose is cartilaginous; only the upper third (the bridge) is bony.
- Location
Upper part (bridge) of the external nose, between the frontal processes of the maxillae.
Anatomy
- Articulations
Frontal bone, ethmoid (perpendicular plate), opposite nasal bone and frontal process of the maxilla.
- Ossification
Intramembranous, one centre each, ≈week 9–10.
Function
- Forms the bony bridge of the nose
- Supports the nasal cartilages
Clinical significance
Nasal fracture
The most commonly fractured facial bone. Always inspect for a septal haematoma (boggy septal swelling), which must be drained urgently to prevent cartilage necrosis and a saddle-nose deformity.
Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Skeletal System sources. For education only; not medical advice.