Prevalence of nasal septum variations in the Libyan population: computed tomography study

Background Nasal septal deformities represent common anatomical variations of the nasal cavity and may influence sinonasal function. Knowledge of their prevalence and patterns is important for clinical assessment and surgical planning. Materials and methods This cross-sectional observational study included brain computed tomography (CT) images from 398 adult Libyan patients. The study population consisted of 203 males and 195 females aged 18–90 years. Patients were recruited from the eastern, western, and southern regions of Libya. Axial and coronal CT images were reviewed to identify nasal septal anatomical variations. These variations included nasal septal deviation (NSD), nasal septal spur (NSS), and nasal septal pneumatization (NSP). Nasal septal deviation was classified as C-shaped, S-shaped, or septal deviation associated with a nasal septal spur. The prevalence of these anatomical variations was analyzed according to sex, age group, and geographical region. Results Nasal septal deviation (NSD) was the most prevalent anatomical variation, with an overall prevalence of 59.8%. C-shaped NSD and nasal spur associated with septal deviation were the most frequent patterns (27.4% and 25.9%, respectively), whereas S-shaped NSD was less common (6.5%). Other variations, including fused NSS with the middle turbinate, isolated NSS, and NSP, were less frequent, with prevalence of 4%, 4.8%, and 2.5%, respectively. Septal variations were more frequently observed in males than females; however, no statistically significant sex-related differences were detected. C-shaped and S-shaped NSD were more prevalent in older age groups, while NSS associated with septal deviation was more common in younger age groups. Statistically significant regional differences in NSD prevalence were observed among the western (55.1%), eastern (86%), and southern (43%) regions ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Nasal septal anatomical variations are common in the Libyan population, with NSD being the most frequent finding. No significant sex-related differences were observed. Regional differences were identified, whereas age-related associations were limited. Preoperative CT evaluation is valuable for accurate anatomical assessment and surgical planning.