Transverse nasalis

The transverse part of the nasalis (Latin: pars transversa musculi nasalis), also called the transverse nasalis or compressor naris, is one of the nasalis muscle parts. It is classified as the nasal facial muscle. The transverse nasalis covers the dorsum of the nose and compresses the nostrils.

Origin

The transverse nasalis muscle arises superolateral to the incisive fossa of the maxilla.

Insertion

The transverse nasalis inserts into the aponeurosis of the bridge of the nose and blends with the fibers of the opposite transverse nasalis muscle.

Action

The transverse part of the nasalis is responsible for compression and closure of the nostrils. It also wrinkles the skin covering the bridge of the nose.

Innervation

The nerve supply to the transverse nasalis muscle is provided by the buccal branches of the facial nerve (CN VII).

Blood supply

The transverse nasalis receives arterial blood supply from the superior labial, septal and lateral nasal branches of the facial artery and the infraorbital artery of the maxillary artery.