Evaluation of the styloid process on digital panoramic radiographs

Evaluation of the styloid process on digital panoramic radiographs

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Background: The styloid process is an anatomical structure, whose clinical Circular/DIN importance is not well understood.Proper clinical and radiographic evaluation can detect an elongated styloid process and calcification of the stylohyoid ligament.It has been reported that 2 - 28% of the general population show radiographic evidence of mineralization of a portion of the stylohyoid chain.The elongated styloid process may be symptomatic in many cases.

Panoramic radiography is the best imaging modality to view the styloid process bilaterally.Aim: To assess the styloid process on digital panoramic radiographs.Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 500 digital panoramic radiographs available in the archives of our department as soft copies.These radiographs were taken using a digital panoramic system.

The radiographic length of the styloid process was measured on both sides using the measurement toolbars on the accompanying analysis software.For statistical analysis we used the unpaired t test, Chi-square test, and one-way ANOVA test, as necessary.Results: The average length of the left styloid was 25.41 ± 6.

32 mm and that of the right styloid was 25.53 ± 6.62 mm.The length of both styloids increased with age and males had longer styloids than females.

Elongated styloids were present in 19.4% of the panoramic radiographs.Langlais type I elongated styloids and a partial calcification pattern were Battery more common than others.Conclusion: Panoramic radiography is useful for detection of an elongated styloid process and / or ossification of the stylohyoid ligament in patients with or without symptoms, and helps avoid a misdiagnosis of tonsillar pain or pain of dental, pharyngeal, or muscular origin.