A fracture is breaking of a bone. In this situation, the nose is the site of the fracture. The nose is divided into two identical chambers that are separated by a partition of bone and cartilage (the septum). Thin pieces of bone, called turbinates, curve in from the outer part of the nose toward the septum. The frontal skull bone borders the nose on the top and the maxilla on each side. A fractured nose may affect the maxilla and the septum.

Blunt injury is often the cause of a fractured nose.

Manifestations may include pain, swelling, bruising, (that may involve the eyes) and bleeding from the nose. Palpation of the bridge of the nose reveals a deformity. There is instability and crepitus. Most commonly, the deviation is on the dorsum to one side, with depression of the nasal bone and the ascending process of the maxilla on the other side. Blocking of sinus openings, chronic sinusitis, and headache are other possible signs and symptoms of the condition.

Diagnosis can ordinarily be established by inspection and gentle palpation of the bridge of the nose for deformity, instability, crepitus, and point tenderness. Diagnosis is confirmed by x-ray. The nose may also be inspected internally for septal deviation, hemorrhage, or clear drainage that may suggest leakage of CSF. If clear drainage is observed, laboratory analysis may be required.

Ice may be applied to the face and nose to reduce edema and bleeding. Medications for headache, pain, and congestion may be helpful. Reduction and manipulation of a nasal fracture after use of a local anesthetic may also be necessary. A complication of nasal fracture may be hematomas of the septum. This must be immediately treated with incision and drainage to prevent infection, airway obstruction, and cartilage necrosis. Septal fractures are difficult to hold in position and may require surgery later. Surgery to realign a fracture may include rhinoplasty or septoplasty.

Complications of nasal fracture may include airway obstruction, epistaxis,and cosmetic deformity which may require surgery at a later date.

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