Medical Term for the Frontal Part of the Nose
The frontal part of the nose is called the "nasal dorsum" or "dorsum nasi." 1
Anatomical Definition
The nasal dorsum refers to the external surface of the nose that extends from the nasion (the junction between the nasal bones and the frontal bone at the nasal root) down to the nasal tip. 1 This structure encompasses both bony and cartilaginous components:
Bony Components
- Upper third (bony dorsum): Consists of the paired nasal bones extending from the nasion to approximately the level where cartilage begins 1
- The nasal bones have variable configurations, with 88% showing an "S-shape" and 12% showing a "V-shape" pattern 2
Cartilaginous Components
- Middle third (cartilaginous dorsum): Formed by the dorsal septal edge and upper lateral cartilages 1
- This region is critical for both structural support and nasal valve function 3
Clinical Terminology in Context
When evaluating the nasal dorsum in frontal view, clinicians assess its position relative to the facial midline vertical, which intercepts the glabella, nasal dorsum, nasal tip, columella base, philtrum, upper incisors, and menton. 1 The term "nasal bridge" is sometimes used colloquially to refer to the upper bony portion of the dorsum, though "nasal dorsum" remains the precise medical terminology. 1, 4
Related Anatomical Landmarks
- Radix: The most cephalic portion where the nasal bones meet the frontal bone 2
- Nasion: The deepest point at the nasal root 2
- Glabella: The smooth prominence of the frontal bone above the nasal root 1
The nasal dorsum is distinct from the nasal sidewalls laterally and the nasal tip distally, representing a specific cosmetic and functional unit in rhinoplasty planning. 4, 5