Analysis of nasal septum deviation and nasal pyramid based on computed tomography scans

Introduction: Among all radiological diagnostic methods for assessing nasal function, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) of paranasal and nasal cavities has the highest sensitivity. The Aim: This research aimed to describe different types of deviation of the nasal septum and their influence on the size of nasal passages in relation to the concha and nasal mucosa, by analyzing computed tomographic (CT) images. Material and Methods: The study included 50 patients aged 21 to 65, 28 were women and 22 were men. On CT scans, the flow of the nasal passages was measured, the degree and type of the curvature of nasal septum, the size and ratio of the nasal shells in relation to the nose and their influence on the size of nasal passages, the curvature (deviation) of the cartilaginous and bony parts of the nasal septum and their relationship and the relationship with nasal passages and nasal concha were described. Results: Through our research and statistical analysis, we found there are 7 types of nose deviation: 1) Deviation in the shape of the letter “C”; 2) Deviation in the shape of the letter “S”; 3) Deviation in the shape of the inverted letter “C”; 4) Deviation in the shape of the inverted letter “S”; 5) Deviation of the caudal part of the cartilaginous nasal septum in the form of a ridge; 6) Deviation in the form of a “thorn”; and 7) perforated nasal septum. In 46 examinees (92% of cases) with septal deviation the mucosa was found to be more thickened and hypertrophic on the side opposite to septal deviation (p<0.05). Conclusion: Seven types of deviation of the nasal septum were found, and the patency of nasal passages directly depends on the ratio of the curvature of nasal septum, the thickness of the mucosa and their mutual relationship with the lower concha.