Vomer
Vomer
A thin, unpaired, plough-shaped bone forming the posteroinferior part of the bony nasal septum.
Overview
The vomer lies in the midline of the nasal cavity. Its upper border splays into two alae that articulate with the underside of the sphenoid body; its inferior border sits in the nasal crest formed by the maxillae and palatine bones; its anterior border joins the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid above and the septal cartilage below; its free posterior border separates the two choanae (posterior nasal apertures). Grooves on its surfaces carry the nasopalatine nerves and vessels towards the incisive canal.
- Location
Midline, posteroinferior nasal septum.
Anatomy
- Articulations
Sphenoid, ethmoid, both maxillae, both palatine bones and the septal cartilage.
- Ossification
Intramembranous, from two centres either side of the midline ≈week 8, which fuse.
Function
- Forms the posteroinferior bony nasal septum
- Separates the choanae
Clinical significance
Deviated nasal septum
Deviation of the septal cartilage–vomer–ethmoid junction may obstruct airflow and impair sinus drainage; corrected by septoplasty.
Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Skeletal System sources. For education only; not medical advice.