Nasal fracture
A nasal fracture, commonly referred to as a broken nose, is a fracture of one of the bones of the nose. Symptoms may include bleeding, swelling, bruising, and an inability to breathe through the nose. They may be complicated by other facial fractures or a septal hematoma.
| Nasal fracture | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Broken nose |
| Plain X-ray showing a nasal fracture | |
| Specialty | Emergency medicine, otorhinolaryngology |
| Symptoms | Nose bleed, swelling, bruising |
| Complications | Septal hematoma, other facial fractures, meningitis |
| Usual onset | Young males |
| Causes | Assault, trauma during sports, falls, motor vehicle collisions |
| Diagnostic method | Typically based on symptoms, occasionally plain X rays |
| Treatment | Pain medication, cold compresses, possible reduction post resolution of swelling |
| Prognosis | Generally good |
| Frequency | Common |
The most common causes include assault, trauma during sports, falls, and motor vehicle collisions. Diagnosis is typically based on the signs and symptoms and may occasionally be confirmed by plain X-ray.
Treatment is typically with pain medication and cold compresses. Reduction, if needed, can typically occur after the swelling has come down. Depending on the type of fracture reduction may be closed or open. Outcomes are generally good. Nasal fractures are common, comprising about 40% of facial fractures. Males in their 20s are most commonly affected.