turbinates

Turbinates, also known as nasal conchae, are long, narrow bony shelves on the lateral walls of the nasal cavity. They are covered by a mucous membrane and project into the airway to increase the surface area available for conditioning inhaled air. Humans typically have three turbinates on each side: the superior, middle, and inferior turbinates. The superior and middle turbinates are parts of the ethmoid bone, while the inferior turbinate is a separate bone that articulates with the maxilla. Each turbinate lies over a corresponding nasal meatus, creating distinct passageways for airflow.

Functionally, turbinates serve to humidify, warm, and filter inspired air. The mucosa contains ciliated, mucus-secreting epithelium that traps particles and helps transport them out of the nasal cavity. The turbinates also house a rich venous plexus capable of engorgement or decongestion, which regulates nasal resistance and airflow in response to autonomic input. This vascular mechanism is particularly important in conditions such as allergic rhinitis, where turbinate swelling can contribute to nasal obstruction.

Clinical relevance includes turbinate hypertrophy, a common cause of chronic nasal obstruction. Management may be medical, with intranasal corticosteroids or antihistamines, or surgical, aiming to reduce tissue bulk while preserving mucociliary function. Surgical approaches range from selective inferior turbinectomy or reduction to less extensive techniques such as radiofrequency ablation or coblation. Anatomical variations, including concha bullosa of the middle turbinate, can also influence sinus drainage and obstruction.

In summary, turbinates condition and regulate the air within the nasal cavity, contributing to airway resistance, humidity, temperature, and olfactory access.