As a specialist in the field of anatomy, I am well-versed in the intricate structures of the human body. The nasal septum is a critical component of the respiratory system, and it plays a significant role in the function of the nose. It is indeed a composite structure, consisting of both bone and cartilage, which together form the partition that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils.

The nasal septum is composed of several parts, each with its unique characteristics. The quadrangular cartilage, also known as the cartilaginous septum, is a flexible and semi-rigid structure that forms the anterior part of the nasal septum. This cartilage is shaped like a thin plate and is responsible for providing support while allowing for some movement during breathing and other facial expressions.

The posterior part of the nasal septum is made up of bone, which provides rigidity and additional support to the structure. The bones that contribute to the formation of the bony septum include the maxillary crest, which is a projection from the maxilla that forms the base of the nasal cavity; the vomer, a thin, flat bone that articulates with the maxillary crest and the sphenoid bone, creating the lower part of the nasal septum; and the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid, a thin, flat bone that forms the upper part of the nasal septum, attaching to the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone.

The combination of cartilage and bone in the nasal septum serves a few important functions. Firstly, it maintains the shape and structure of the nasal cavity, ensuring that air flows freely through the nostrils. Secondly, the septum helps to filter, warm, and humidify the air we breathe, which is essential for maintaining the health of our respiratory system. Lastly, the septum plays a role in the sense of smell, as the olfactory nerves are located in the upper part of the nasal cavity.

Deviations in the nasal septum, such as a deviated septum, can lead to various issues, including difficulty breathing, recurrent sinus infections, and even sleep disturbances. These conditions can be congenital or acquired due to injury or other factors.

In conclusion, the nasal septum is a complex structure that is vital for the proper functioning of the nose. It is a combination of both bone and cartilage, each serving its purpose in maintaining the structure and function of the nasal cavity.

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The nasal septum is the bone and cartilage in the nose that separates the nasal cavity into the two nostrils. The cartilage is called the quadrangular cartilage and the bones comprising the septum include the maxillary crest, vomer and the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid.read more >>