Nasal Fractures at North Austin Campus

The nose consists of the nasal bones, the nasal cartilages, and the septum (Figure 1).

Figure 1: Nasal bones and septum

A nasal fracture may affect the nasal bones, the septum, or both. A nasal bone fracture is usually associated with nasal bleeding, which should usually stop on its own. If the bleeding does not stop, the immediate medical attention is needed.

If there is a hematoma (collection of blood) in the septum, this should be treated with immediate drainage. Nasal fractures without significant displacement may be treated with observation. If there is displacement of the septum or the bones, closed reduction may be needed. This procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon manipulates the bones and the septum to reduce them (put them back in the correct position). If closed reduction is needed, it should usually be performed within 7-10 days of injury, before healing has started.

If a nasal fracture is displaced, and closed reduction is not performed in a timely manner, or if closed reduction is unsuccessful, then formal reconstruction of the nose and septum (septorhinoplasty) may be needed. This is usually performed several months after injury.

In children, the septum is one of the growth centers of the nose. For that reason, injury to the septum in children may affect future growth of the nose.