Sports-Related Nasal Injuries

In brief Nasal injuries occur frequently in sports, but most are minor abrasions and contusions. Protective headgear has reduced but not eliminated more serious injuries, such as fractures. Nasal fractures can cause cumulative damage that is both functional and cosmetic. This is particularly significant during adolescence when the nose is growing. A thorough initial examination of the external and internal nose is important because many nasal injuries are underdiagnosed. When treatment of wounds or fractures is based on a sound understanding of the cartilaginous and bony structures of the nose, late complications and reoperation can be avoided.