The Importance of the Membranous Nasal Septum

The narrow portion at the lower end of the nasal septum, lying between the cartilaginous septum and the columella, is called the membranous septum, or the septum mobile nasi. As its name implies, it is the most flexible part of the septum. It is formed by a union of the septum mucous membranes immediately below their envelopment of the septal cartilage. This united membrane in turn blends with the skin of the columella. It lies between the semirigid columella and the more rigid septal cartilage. This membrane acts as a buffer between the columella and the cartilaginous septum, softening blows to the lower nose. It may be likened to a shock absorber, absorbing shock-producing blows. It is sufficiently elastic in most cases to prevent the caudal end of the cartilaginous septum from being protruded into the nose as a consequence of severe trauma to the lower nose. The membranous septum