Nasal Septal Swell Body: A Distinctive Structure in the Nasal Cavity

Abstract

Objectives: The nasal septal swell body (NSB), also known as the nasal septal turbinate, is located in the anterior part of the nasal septum. This study is a narrative review of the existing knowledge on recent developments in NSB. Methods: A literature search was performed using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Ovid, and Cochrane Library databases. Google Scholar was used to access more extensive literature. The inclusion criteria were human studies published in English. The exclusion criteria were non-English language and animal studies. Results: Of the 345 articles that were initially obtained from 5 databases and Google Scholar, 28 were included in this review. There have been many names for NSBs in the past, which still have no unified terminology recognized by professionals. Pathological investigations revealed that NSB contains a certain amount of sinusoidal blood components. Nasal septal swell body is closely related to the internal nasal valve. Imaging studies have found that the size of NSB is associated with nasal diseases, and NSB hypertrophy can cause anatomic obstruction. In recent years, several procedures for NSB have been reported, and preliminary effectiveness has been achieved. However, the long-term outcomes of volume reduction techniques remain unproven. Conclusions: The NSB is a distinct anatomic structure that may contribute to nasal obstruction and may be reduced surgically with unclear long-term results. Although being investigated for over a century, the unique physiological roles of NSB are not yet fully understood. More evidence is needed to elucidate its physiological effects.

Temperature‐controlled radiofrequency device treatment of septal swell bodies for nasal airway obstruction: An open‐label, single arm multicenter study

“…Similar to the IT, the SSB is comprised of highly glandular tissue with blood sinusoids and is capable of vascular expansion into the nasal cavity. 9 Furthermore, the SSB may be more prominent contralateral to a septal deviation; this is often seen with the IT and suggests that asymmetric SSB hypertrophy may be a similar compensatory physiologic phenomenon. The SSB is thicker in allergic patients and may contribute to nasal obstruction in patients with allergic rhinitis.…”

“…16 Nonsurgical approaches with potential for long-term benefit that can reduce risks for damage to important adjacent nasal structures and postsurgical complications are desired. 9 The objective of this study was to assess the clinical use of a temperature-controlled radiofrequency (TCRF) device to treat SSB hypertrophy to improve symptoms in adults diagnosed with severe or extreme NAO. In this report, we detail the safety and efficacy of TCRF treatment for SSB hypertrophy at 3 months posttreatment, including findings from CT image evaluation.…”

“…Unlike a septal deflection, the SSB will shrink in response to topical decongestion, underscoring the importance of examining the nose in both pre‐decongestion and post‐decongestion states. Similar to the IT, the SSB is comprised of highly glandular tissue with blood sinusoids and is capable of vascular expansion into the nasal cavity 9 . Furthermore, the SSB may be more prominent contralateral to a septal deviation; this is often seen with the IT and suggests that asymmetric SSB hypertrophy may be a similar compensatory physiologic phenomenon.…”

“…However, these medications can cause nasal irritation and dryness and long‐term use of nasal decongestants may result in rebound nasal inflammation and congestion when discontinued 16 . Nonsurgical approaches with potential for long‐term benefit that can reduce risks for damage to important adjacent nasal structures and postsurgical complications are desired 9 …”

Minimally Invasive Nasal Valve Treatment

“…Histologic and radiographic studies have established consistency of the structure and a potential opportunity for intervention. [5][6][7] Detailing a comprehensive nasal exam is outside the scope of this article; however, specific details should be discussed. An exam of the external and internal nasal valves consists primarily of anterior rhinoscopy.…”