Eagle's syndrome: a comparison of intraoral versus extraoral surgical approaches

Eagle first described vague orofacial pain associated with styloid elongation in 1937. Since that time, many authors have described the various clinical symptoms, radiographic features, and treatment regiments seen with Eagle's syndrome. Two cases of Eagle's syndrome treated surgically are presented in this article. Both extraoral and intraoral approaches were separately used. These two surgical approaches are critically discussed in depth. The extraoral approach is advocated. In addition, diagnostic procedures and nonsurgical treatment alternatives are discussed.