Study of Nasal Index in Different Zones of Jammu and Kashmir

ABSTRACT

The anthropometry of nose is an important index to identify a pure race from mixed races . Nasal index isa very sensitive index in nasal anthropometry, as it varies with sex, race and habitat of the person. Theanthropometry of face in general and nose in particular has been used in forensic investigations,reconstructive surgeries and genetic counselling. To study the nasal index in different zones of Jammu andKashmir. 120 students of first professional MBBS Government Medical College Jammu were used assubjects. All of them were in the age group of 18 to 22 years. The length and breadth of the nose wasmeasured by means of digital calliper and the nasal index was calculated using the formula NASAL. Theresults so obtained were tabulated and analysed. LTS. Sexual dimorphism was seen in all the recordedparameters. Anthropometric variation for nasal index is seen in different zones of Jammu and Kashmir.Mean nasal index was 65.98+9.36 for males and 72.15+11.30 for females. Most common type of nasalform in both males and females is leptorrhine or moderately narrow nose.Nasal index plays a significantrole in determining sex and race and so is helpful to forensic investigators .It is also useful for plasticsurgeons while performing rhinoplasty of a particular region as it shows ethnic specificity.