Turbinals

Turbinals, also known as nasal turbinates or conchae, are bony, shell-like structures located within the nasal cavity. They are covered by a mucous membrane and play a crucial role in the respiratory system. There are typically three turbinals on each side of the nose: the superior, middle, and inferior turbinals. The superior and middle turbinals are part of the ethmoid bone, while the inferior turbinal is a separate bone. Their primary function is to increase the surface area of the nasal cavity, which is essential for warming, humidifying, and filtering inhaled air before it reaches the lungs.

As air passes over the turbinals, the rich blood supply within the mucous membranes helps to warm the air to body temperature. The moist surface of the membrane also adds humidity to the inhaled air, preventing the delicate tissues of the lungs from drying out. Furthermore, the convoluted shape of the turbinals creates turbulence, causing inhaled particles, such as dust, pollen, and pathogens, to become trapped in the mucus. This trapped material is then transported by cilia towards the pharynx to be swallowed or expelled. Enlargement or inflammation of the turbinals, often due to allergies or chronic sinusitis, can obstruct airflow and lead to nasal congestion. In some cases, surgical reduction of enlarged turbinals may be performed to improve breathing.