Nasal Obstruction: The Role and Management of the Nasal Valve and Inferior Turbinates

This chapter will cover nasal obstruction caused by the narrowing of the nasal valve and hyperplasia of the inferior turbinates. Correct anatomical diagnosis is of key importance when assessing possible nasal valve dysfunction, and the applied anatomy of the external and internal nasal valve will be detailed. Nasal valve surgery is recognised as being challenging even in experienced hands, and the various procedures commonly used to correct external and internal valve dysfunction will be outlined. 

The anatomy and pathophysiology of inferior turbinate hyperplasia will be outlined, together with the recommended assessment of patients presenting with this condition. The medical management of inferior turbinate hyperplasia will be discussed, and the various surgical techniques used to reduce the volume of the inferior turbinates will be discussed.