In a diagnostic lateral projection of the nasal bones, which structures are visualized?

In a diagnostic lateral projection of the nasal bones, which structures are visualized?

• A. Nasal bone only
• B. Nasal bone and frontal bone
• C. Nasal bone, anterior nasal spine, and frontal nasal suture
• D. Zygomatic arch and maxillary sinus

Answer: (C)

On a lateral projection used to evaluate the nasal bones, you’re looking at the nasal bones themselves and their connections to adjacent midface bones. The nasal bones are seen in profile, and you can also visualize the anterior nasal spine, which is the bony projection at the lower front of the nasal framework where the maxilla contributes to the nasal base. In addition, the frontal nasal suture—the line where the nasal bones meet the frontal bone—can be seen along the superior edge. Together, these landmarks (nasal bones, anterior nasal spine, and frontal nasal suture) are the structures expected on this view. The zygomatic arch and maxillary sinus are not the primary landmarks for this specific projection.

On a lateral projection used to evaluate the nasal bones, you’re looking at the nasal bones themselves and their connections to adjacent midface bones. The nasal bones are seen in profile, and you can also visualize the anterior nasal spine, which is the bony projection at the lower front of the nasal framework where the maxilla contributes to the nasal base. In addition, the frontal nasal suture—the line where the nasal bones meet the frontal bone—can be seen along the superior edge. Together, these landmarks (nasal bones, anterior nasal spine, and frontal nasal suture) are the structures expected on this view. The zygomatic arch and maxillary sinus are not the primary landmarks for this specific projection.