Congenital Nasal Malformations and Surgical Interventions
Summary
Congenital nasal malformations encompass a spectrum of developmental anomalies ranging from complete absence of nasal structures to partial underdevelopment or duplication. These conditions arise from disruptions in early nasal placode formation and fusion processes, often in association with broader craniofacial syndromes or chromosomal aberrations. Clinically, neonates with severe arhinia or hyporhinia present with respiratory distress and feeding difficulties, reflecting the obligate nasal breathing of infants. Beyond the neonatal period, aesthetic deformity and psychosocial impact become paramount. Surgical management follows a staged, multidisciplinary pathway: initial stabilisation of the airway and nutritional support through orogastric or tracheostomy tubes; detailed three-dimensional imaging to delineate skeletal and soft-tissue anatomy; and definitive reconstruction using cartilage grafts, soft-tissue flaps and custom implants. Advances in imaging, virtual surgical planning and tissue engineering have refined timing and techniques. Global efforts are focused on harmonising protocols for early diagnosis, perioperative care and long-term functional and aesthetic outcomes, bridging otolaryngology, paediatric craniofacial surgery, genetics and allied specialties.
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Congenital Nasal Malformations and Surgical Interventions publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in congenital nasal malformations and surgical interventions across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Arhinia: Complete absence of external nasal structures and internal nasal passages.
Hyporhinia: Partial underdevelopment or rudimentary formation of nasal components.
Nasal columella: The central column of tissue between the nostrils that supports the nasal tip.
Rhinoplasty: Surgical reconstruction or alteration of nasal form and function.
Nasal placode: Embryonic ectodermal region that gives rise to the olfactory epithelium and nasal structures.
References
- Congenital partial arhinia: a case report. Journal of Medical Case Reports (2007).
- Bosma Arhinia Microphthalmia Syndrome (BAMS): First Report from Vietnam. Cureus (2023).
- Congenital Nasal Bones Agenesis: Report of a Rare Malformation. Case Reports in Medicine (2024).
- Congenital hyporhinia with associated malformations: Case report of a rare congenital anomaly. Clinical Case Reports (2023).
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