Anatomical Features, Blood Supply, and Nerve Innervation of the Nasal Septum and Lateral Wall of the Nose

Blood Supply to the Nasal Septum

The nasal septum receives its blood supply from a complex network of arteries, ensuring adequate perfusion for mucosal health and function.

Major Arterial Supply

• Sphenopalatine artery: A branch of the maxillary artery providing significant blood flow to the septum.
• Greater palatine artery: Contributes to the vascularization of the nasal mucosa.
• Superior labial artery: A branch of the facial artery that supplies the anterior septal region.
• Anterior and posterior ethmoidal arteries: Arising from the ophthalmic artery, these arteries supply the upper portion of the septum.

Kiesselbach's Plexus

Also known as the Little’s area, Kiesselbach’s plexus is a highly vascularized region located in the anterior part of the nasal septum, making it prone to epistaxis (nosebleeds).

Clinical Significance

The blood supply to the nasal septum is crucial for maintaining tissue integrity, humidification, and immune defense. Disorders affecting this vascular network, such as septal perforation or chronic inflammation, can lead to complications including recurrent epistaxis and nasal obstruction.