AN ANTHROPOMETRIC STUDY OF NASAL INDEX WITH ITS CLINICAL CORRELATION

Abstract

Background: Nose is an important anatomical and physiological part of face. Its anatomy considerably affects its function of inhalation and temperature regulation of inspired air. The anatomy is affected by genetic, racial as well as geographical factors. The aim of the study was to measure nasal height and width in the population being studied so as to calculate nasal index and classify noses on the basis of calculated index. Materials and method: The study was conducted on 159 healthy volunteers aged 18-25 years in Medical College Baroda, Gujarat. Nasal height and Nasal width were measured by digital vernier caliper and the nasal index was calculated. The type of nose was determined on the basis of the nasal index. Results: In the present study the mean nasal index is found to be 73.28+10. Mean nasal index is observed as 106.46+6.24 in males & 71.94+8.02 in females. The t test value calculated is 26.725 at CI 95% with P<0.0001 showing highly significant difference in nasal indices of male and female. Mesorrhine is the commonest nasal type found. Conclusion: The study will be highly useful to plastic surgeons, craniofacial surgeons, otolaryngologists, anatomists, forensic experts, orthodontists and medical illustrators alike.