Classification of middle turbinate pneumatization.

Three types of bulla concha pneumatization.

Lamellar

Bulbar

Total

Giant Concha bullosa

Concha bullosa is a term used for enlarged middle turbinates filled with air. Most of the time they are asymptomatic but with their mass effect they can cause stuffy nose. Deviated nasal septum can be associated with this compromising other side of the nose as well. Concha bullosa may itself become diseased sometimes. Concha bullosa may obstruct the drainage of maxillary sinus giving rise to maxillary sinusitis as well.

Treatment involves removing a part of bone on its lateral side with preservation of mucosa (lateral turbinectomy). 

Concha Bullosa

 

Bilateral large Concha Bullosa

Concha Bullosa means when the middle turbinate contains air or it is opened instead of like the inferior one as shown. It may not cause any problem or it may cause narrowing of sinus passage. It may be cause of headache especially in allergic cases. Treatment is straightforward. Excise the lateral half of this turbinate facing the sinus with help of endoscope and preserving its mucosa.