Endoscopic view of a powered partial resection of a concha bullosa

Pneumatization of the middle turbinate, known as a concha bullosa, is a common anatomic variant. It is a good example of how an anatomic variation in the nose does not represent a pathologic state, per se, but can predispose a person to sinusitis. A concha bullosa is clinically important when there is significant narrowing of the middle meatus with ostiomeatal-complex obstruction resulting in sinus disease. Surgical intervention may become necessary.